An Assessment of KBSA and a Look Towards the Future

Abstract : The Knowledge-Based Software Assistant (KBSA) project has concluded its first research phase and is moving on to the second phase. This report describes a review conducted of: the short-term goals (as set out in the initial 1983 KBSA report) and how well they have been met, whether the mid-term goals should be reevaluated and how to proceed towards these mid-term goals. To facilitate integration of the various KBS facets, and to make effective use of available funding, reusable capabilities and supporting technologies within the KBS project need to be identified and pursued. This report proposes that this identification can be made from a knowledgeable position now that progress has been made on most of the required facets.