The MEDIATOR: Analysis of an Early Case-Based Problem Solver

Case-based reasoning is a reasoning method that capitalizes on previous experience. In case-based reosoning, a new problem is solved in a way that is anologous to a previous similar problem. Case-bosed reasoning can improve problem-solving behavior In several ways: by providing reasoning shortcuts, by worning of the potential for error, and by suggesting a focus for reasoning. The MEDIATOR was one of the earliest case-based, problem-solving programs. Its domain is dispute resolution, and it uses case-based reasoning for 10 different tasks involved in its problem solving. Whilssome of the MEDIATOR's processes have been elaborated and improved on in later case-based problem solvers, there remain many lessons that con be learned about case-based reasoning by analyzing the MEDIATOR's behavior. This article provides a short description of the MEDIATOR ond its domain , presents its successes and shortcomings, and analyzes the reasons why it behaves the way it does. As part of the onalysis, the differences and similarities between the MEDIATOR and later case-based reasoners ore also described, as well as the implications of those differences. MECH projects. Thanks also to each of these people for insightful comments made during discussion and while reading earlier versions of this manuscript. Thanks, too, to the people in Janet Kolodner's case-based reasoning seminar in fall, 1987, especially Reid Simmons, for the insightful comments made concerning the contents of this article. The shortcomings, of course, are all those of the authors.