Expert Systems and Database Systems

Two types of software that make the handling of huge quantities of data easier are described and compared. The first is an expert system which processes extensive and complicated knowledge. It works interactively with the user when it acquires information which is being compared with the facts and relations contained in the knowledge base. The second type of software is a database system which is a record-keeping system that organizes and maintains information and makes it available on demand. Examples of expert systems and database systems in civil and structural engineering are given.