QBQ^® informed questions

An interactive system that requests information by posing questions through an HCI.

QBQ informed questions is used to gather information and, where required, derive outputs.

With each response, validation rules are applied to the information supplied. Further rules then determine the next question to pose and hence the next item of information to be acquired.

QIQ uses the QBQ rule logic engine:

QBQ informed questions may be seen as an automated and intelligent form or questionaire.

The benefit of this is the presentation of information requests, in very small sets, even a single value. This removes the need for complex forms while ensuring that the information gathered is complete.

The advantages of using the logic engine approach are:

• Only the questions that need to be answered are presented to the user.
• The information supplied is continually assessed to ensure it is consistent.
• Completeness is recognised despite the fact that it may take many forms.
• The response from QIQ to the user is consistent, based only on the responses to the questions posed.
• The derivation of values is consistent.
• Changes to the data may be monitored by audit trail.

QIQ is suitable for any process that involves the gathering of information from a third party and where the information supplied defines further information to be gathered. Examples include:

• Welfare benefits where detailed information on relationships, earnings and tax are required.
• Financial audit information.
• Help systems
• Fault finding in equipment.

A demonstration of interactive data gathering is available at www.businessrules.info. The example is based on data needed for Social Services in the UK to assess benefits to be paid. (N.B. some browser versions have difficulties with this web site.)