Expert system is a computer program that uses artificial intelligence to simulate the decision-making ability of a human expert. The spelling of the term "expert system" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription: /ˈɛks.pərt ˈsɪs.təm/. The first word ends with a "t" sound, and the second word begins with a "s" sound, which flows smoothly when spoken together. The stress is on the first syllable of each word, making it easy to remember how to spell the term correctly. Expert systems have revolutionized decision-making processes in many industries, making them highly sought after by businesses and organizations alike.
An expert system refers to a computer-based program or software designed to replicate the problem-solving expertise and decision-making capabilities of a human expert in a specific domain or field. It utilizes a combination of artificial intelligence and knowledge engineering techniques to capture, store, and apply specialized knowledge and rules to provide accurate and reliable solutions or recommendations.
This advanced software system comprises knowledge bases, inference engines, and user interfaces. The knowledge base acts as a repository of factual information, rules, and heuristics related to the specific domain, which is acquired from domain experts. The inference engine is responsible for interpreting user queries or problems, accessing and applying the knowledge stored in the knowledge base to derive solutions or make decisions. The user interface acts as the means by which users interact with the expert system, allowing them to input queries, receive and analyze generated outputs, or request further explanations.
Expert systems are widely used in various domains, including medicine, engineering, finance, and manufacturing, where their ability to process enormous amounts of data, provide consistent and accurate results, and quickly provide solutions to complex problems is invaluable. Their implementation can lead to enhanced decision-making, improved efficiency, reduced costs, and increased productivity. However, expert systems are not meant to replace human experts entirely but rather to complement their expertise, provide insights, or assist in training new practitioners.
The word "expert" comes from the Latin word "expertus", which means experienced or skilled. "System" comes from the Latin word "systema", meaning a whole composed of interacting or interdependent parts.
The term "expert system" was coined in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the 1970s. The concept is that an expert system is a computer system that emulates the decision-making ability of a human expert in a specific field. The term combines the notion of expertise with the idea of a computerized system.