ABSTRACT
In this paper we discuss the development and implementation of a loosely coupled expert database system supporting catalog sales for a large industrial supplier, Richmond Supply Company. The system is called an Automated Catalog System (ACS) because it automates most of the sales, purchasing, and technical support processes. The ACS enables the user to search a database of products using any combination of the seller-defined parameters and select items for full-page graphic and text display. It helps the user build purchase orders and send them via the push of a button through his or her modem. Since the average customer is not very familiar with the technical aspects of the products they are going to purchase, expert product selectors have been incorporated. The product selectors, which are small expert systems on different product categories such as casters, paint, and gloves, aim to help users make better, more informed purchase decisions.
