Setting Up an Ask-An-Expert Service

By L. Bry, MadSci Admin

The following files outline considerations in developing an "Ask-An_Expert" service. This information derives from the documentation used by the MadSci administrators, and is intended as an "online reference" for inquiries we receive concerning the functioning of our site. While we answer questions in the basic sciences, it is my hope that other organizations would be willing to create similar sites to field questions in areas outside of science and mathematics.

These materials are Copyright © 1997. Lynn Bry, Enigma Engines for a Better Universe. All rights reserved. You are free to download and use this information for personal or educational purposes only. No materials may be sold or printed for commerical or profitable use in any form, electronic or otherwise, without prior consent of the author.

Overview: The basic points..
I Setting up an Ask-An-Expert Service
II The MODERATOR package: web tools developed to assist with an Ask-An-Expert site. Allows management of experts answering questions and the processing & management of incoming information.
III Script Functions
V Setting up a searchable archive.
VI Errata: Helpful software packages,
Additional Info: The Moderators' manual and the MadSci Manual for answering questions.

The MadSci Network

Lynn Bry