Expert systems for construction project monitoring

Potential applications of knowledge based expert systems in the area of construction project monitoring and control are described. Originally developed from research in artificial intelligence, these systems are computer programs that can undertake intelligent tasks currently performed by highly skilled people. While some project monitoring can be accomplished by algorithmic procedures, the capability of knowledge based expert systems to deal with ill-structured problems and to be extensively modified over time make them desirable for application in this area. Sample applications and heuristic rules in scheduling and inventory control are provided.