Business Rule Engines

2008-03-06 15:04:07

( Business )



What is a Business Rule Engine?

It is a type of software system which helps you to translate your company rules and policies and automate the results of implementing them.

You just need to program your computer system in order to apply the business rules you have dictated for various aspects of your business operations, such as merchandise inventory, sales discounts, payroll and employee appraisals.

The business rule engine software helps classify these rules into different categories. Information flows in from other databases of your computer system and will be processed by the business rule engine.

If the business rule engine detects any deviation from your company rules and policies, then it will react according to how you have commanded it to do in case of the deviation. For instance, the business rule engine can automatically deduct from an employee's future payslip for any leave day in excess of the allowance. Or the business rule engine will immediately prepare a reorder form to replenish your inventory level. Thus, the business rule engine can make decisions on your behalf for any unusual patterns.

Basic Functions of Business Rule Engines

The primary function of a business rule engine is to provide information. It can alert you and your employees of any drastic patterns or changes that deviate from existing policies. You set the limits to some users in your company and the business rule engine makes sure that they adhere to the limits.

The other major function of a business rule engine is to perform a set of programmed actions to respond to any unusual or deviant patterns of operations. The action can be preventive, as in refusing to allow an ATM user to do any transaction if he enters the wrong security code three times. It can also be reactive, as in granting an automatic discount to buyers who exceed a certain purchase limit. And it can be corrective, as in the case of payroll deductions for undertime.

Business Rules Management

Proper business rules management begins with writing business rules and policies that are clear-cut. Each rule should be translated into IF and THEN statements that the software will be able to understand.

You should also review your business rules from time to time in order to make sure that you are adapting to any changes in legislation and technology.

A good idea would be to hire the services of a software engineer or consultant who will be in a better position to help you translate all your business rules into doable and accurate applications.


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