Expert systems in the United Kingdom: an evaluation of development methodologies

Abstract: This paper discusses the results of a survey of ES producers conducted between October 1987 and June 1988 as part of a British Library Research and Development Department funded project. The survey aimed to establish the nature and scope of ES projects in Britain, the skills and methodologies used in their development and the background and experience of the personnel employed to develop them. A major part of the survey focused on the human input and organisational impact of ESs and this paper summarises the findings of the survey with particular reference to these issues. It includes details of the organisational background of those working in the area; a review of the nature, number and scope of ES projects in Britain; consultation procedures with both users and experts; the knowledge engineering task and methodologies currently used in undertaking it; the skills and attributes of the knowledge engineer; issues of updating and extending ESs; and hopes, projections and expectations for the future.