Rule-Based Scripts

Rule-Based scripts are useful when you need to code an expert's knowledge about how to make a decision so that others can apply the script in situations where the expert is not available. Because a set of rules is used rather than numeric equations, Rule-Based scripts offer a way of assessing information that more closely matches the way people think. A distinct advantage to using this type of script over a Decision Tree script is that it is easier to maintain and update.

Rule-Based scripts work by asking your Web site visitor a series of questions and then comparing each answer to a defined set of rules. When a match is found, DecisionScript proceeds to the next question. Common uses for Rule-Based scripts include automated help desks, determining the best product for your customer, diagnostic systems, etc.

A unique feature of Rule-Based scripts is Logical Look-Ahead. With Logical Look-Ahead, DecisionScript asks your Web site visitors only those questions that logically follow the answers given. For example, if a cellular phone service customer says he plans to use his phone 90+ minutes each month, DecisionScript asks only those questions which relate to service plans that include a minimum of 90 minutes of airtime. Another feature of Logical Look-Ahead is that it allows you to build Rule-Based scripts without worrying about the order in which the questions are asked. DecisionScript asks only those questions that are absolutely necessary to reach a solution.

Using Jupiter Cellular’s five wireless service plans presented in the previous example, you can build a Rule-Based script. Open the file Rule-Based, which can be found in the DecisionScript Examples directory, to see the completed example.

Unlike Decision Tree scripts, which start at the root node and branch forward with each response, Rule-Based scripts ask questions trying to rule out options that don’t meet the customer’s needs. The steps required to build a Rule-Based script are outlined below.

See Also

Building a Rule-Based Script