Mockler has constructed a practical and useful guide to designing and building knowledge-based systems and applying them to strategic planning for companies. This book is intended for the corporate business planner or manager who is interested in using knowledge-based systems to aid in business decision making. Mockler focuses on the practical application of knowledge-based systems to strategic planning. He presents little theory; the information on strategic planning and knowledge-based systems is introductory and not very technical. The book is laden with examples, descriptions, and prototypes of possible and actual systems drawn from Mockler’s obviously extensive professional experience.

The book is divided into three parts. Part 1 introduces strategic company planning. Mockler provides chapters on developing company strategies, analyzing the industry, identifying opportunities and keys to success, evaluating competitive positions, developing strategic company objectives, and creating a strategic-planning framework.

Part 2 introduces knowledge-based systems. It contains chapters on structured situation analysis, designing and documenting a system, and putting knowledge-based systems on the computer. The discussion features the M.1, EXSYS, and GURU software packages for knowledge-based system development.

Part 3 describes six prototype systems for developing strategic company objectives, identifying opportunities for using computer information technology, planing new ventures, career planning, determining marketing strategy, and approving commercial loans.

Each chapter has a set of review questions, and most include references. The book also contains a well-organized index, a brisk bibliography of expected general artificial intelligence and business references, and an appendix of company planning studies.

This work is a well-crafted introduction to the application of knowledge-based systems to corporate strategic decision making. The book features Mockler’s experience. As such, there is little to compare it to. It would be a useful adjunct to a business-focused class on the application of knowledge-based systems.