FAILSAFE: Supporting product quality with knowledge-based systems

This article describes the design, development, implementation and impact of an expert system used in Quality Assurance in the food industry. The knowledge base of the system was developed by a non-programmer in a high level production rule language. The introduction of the system led to improved decision-making at the plant level and improved reporting to meet internal and external quality requirements. The system also contributed to team based learning. The system is likely to save one plant over US$100,000 due to decreased consumer complaints.