In just few years, case-based reasoning has evolved from a research topic studied at a small number of specialized academic labs into an industrial-strength technology applied in various fields. The INRECA methodology presented in detail in this monograph provides a data analysis framework for developing case-based reasoning solutions for successful applications in real-world industrial contexts.

The book is divided into parts on:

- smarter business with case-based decision support;
- developing case-based applications using the INRECA methodology; and
- using the methodology in various application domains.

The book provides a self-contained introduction to case-based reasoning applications that address both R&D professionals and general IT managers interested in this powerful new technology.

In this second edition, improvements and updates have been incorporated throughout the text. Particularly useful is the systematic coverage of experience factory applications at various steps; and, of course, the references have been extended substantially.

This book presents a selection of revised refereed papers taken from the contributions to the Second European Workshop on Case-Based Reasoning, EWCBR-94, held at the Abbaye de Royaumont near Paris in November 1994. The 22 papers included were chosen from a total of 60 submissions. The important evolution by experienced artificial intelligence during the last few years has been essentially influenced by case-based reasoning, particularly by the area of knowledge-based decision support. This book documents the progress achieved in CBR methods and tools during the very recent past. It also outlines the substantial success achieved in the applications domain, especially in the fields of architecture and computer-aided design, task planning, chemical synthesis, maintenance and diagnosis, and law.