Consequently, the Serviceability characteristics of existing networks are often not well understood, neither are the impacts of modifications to a network. However, it is important that any modifications to a network maintain, or even improve, its Serviceability. The need to evaluate the impact on Serviceability of an existing or proposed network design is an important problem, which requires the judgment of an expert. However, given the short supply of such experts, there is an obvious role for expert systems in Serviceability evaluation. It operates in phases, and consists of a set of cooperating intelligent agents, built using rules, a common form of expert system technology.
Agents have different roles and contain different knowledge about network service.
The agents also produce messages from specific points of view that provide a more subtle and complete picture of the network than a user might normally consider. However, this richness of information is presented by the interface in such a way as to present essential results only, with additional details retrievable if needed. The system uses a large amount of Digital-specific information about network products, including MTBF, standard service contract costs, etc. The system also encapsulates knowledge that has been gathered from interviewing Digital experts. The following image shows the design of the Expert System Structure.