What Are Disadvantages of Using Expert Systems?

Disadvantages of using expert systems include high cost and a complex menu-driven system. Other disadvantages include rigidity with no flexibility to changing environment, inability to explain logic behind some decisions, and inability to automate complex procedures.

An expert system refers to software designed to offer solutions to problems or substantiate uncertainties that would otherwise require consultation of experts. It is a computer-based system that imitates the decision-making capability of experts. Expert systems have been made possible by advancements in computer-supported technology. These systems act on behalf of human beings, providing them with full knowledge and advice to facilitate decision-making. Expert systems are broadly applied in various fields in society, ranging from providing simple instructions to executing complex tasks.

However, the major disadvantage of expert system is the knowledge acquisition. It requires a significant amount of time to gain the skills required to work with the involved software applications. Unlike the tasks completed by human beings, expert systems do not incorporate common sense in making decisions. They also lack creativity possessed by human beings.

On the other hand, expert systems present several benefits, including capacity to hold a lot of information that can be retrieved easily whenever needed. They also centralize the decision-making process. The use of expert systems helps eliminate errors through the automation process.