EXPERT SYSTEM ADAPTED DATA NETWORK GUIDANCE ENGINE

An expert system adapted data network guidance engine. The invention allows as agent to interact with a customer and to provide selection and recommendation of data network products and/or services for the customer. The invention allows for the use of agents of varying skill levels, including relatively low skill level, without suffering deleterious performance. The data network guidance engine is operable to perform generation and selection of configurations that are generated using various heuristics. If desired, numerous iterations are performed within each of the heuristic operations. The data network guidance engine is operab le to select recommended configurations from among a number of potential options. In addition, compatible configurations may also be identified. The data network guidance engine is o ne of the underlying engines within the expert system that allows the agent to provide real time interaction with a customer and to provide a real dune recommended solution to that customer.