Microcomputer‐based expert systems: where we are, where we are headed

It is suggested that the history of software developments on the small computers indicates that a pattern of growth exists and if this same pattern is applied to expert systems, the author contends, the near-term future of micro-based knowledge-based systems is at least forecastable if not predictable.

Abstract

Abstract: While the idea of developing ‘true’ expert systems in the current microcomputer environment continues to be a subject of derision among serious AI researchers, undaunted developers and designers of microcomputer‐based systems continue to make progress on the personal computer front. This article presents an overview of the current state of expert systems in a microcomputer environment and then offers some prognostications about the near‐term future of expert systems on desktop and personal computers. It is suggested that the history of software developments on the small computers indicates that a pattern of growth exists. If this same pattern is applied to expert systems, the author contends, the near‐term future of micro‐based knowledge‐based systems is at least forecastable if not predictable.