Complex tasks can be gradually implemented using many small agents. The resulting system is easy to maintain since agents may be changed internally or replaced without affecting the remaining agents. Although most agents act under the user's direction, they can run in the background and act in an advisory capacity. Such an agent might use rule-based techniques to check for building code violations or act as a source of expertise by making suggestions on improving energy efficiency. The primary role of agents in ACE is as design assistants that use heuristic rules and a powerful checklist facility to automate routine design tasks, thus enhancing productivity and ensuring repeatable design quality.
Experienced designers can store their knowledge in agents for use by others.
The true strength of ACE, however, is in tool integration. ACE offers the possibility of blurring the distinction between data in CAD drawings, analysis programs, and bid specifications. It does this by providing a central database that reduces redundant data input and the associated risk of human error and improves document consistency. An explanation capability indicates how a given result was derived, improving design quality and accountability while reducing information overload. ACE may be used to assist engineers and architects in many different types of design applications.