APPLICATION OF EXPERT SYSTEMS TO CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION

Abstract

The aim of this research is to demonstrate the application of expert system technology to contractual interpretation. A review is made of the past work in the legal domain and construction in general. The nature of legal knowledge and contractual interpretation are examined. This leads to arrive at the appropriate type of representation for this domain. A prototype system was developed. The prototype development gave an insight into the various steps for the development of an expert system in construction contract. The areas of knowledge elicitation are examined. The system caters for different levels of users. The usefulness of the system would be greatly enhanced where the fully developed system is completed. The research concludes with benefits, pitfalls, development strategies and potentials for a system in the interpretation of construction contract.