Managers, business owners, computer literate individuals, software developers, students, and researchers--all are looking for an understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) and what might be in the future. In this literate yet easy-to-read discussion, Derek Partridge explains what artificial intelligence can and cannot do, and what it holds for applications such as banking, financial services, and expert systems of all kinds. Topics include: the strengths and weaknesses of software development and engineering; machine learning and its promises and problems; expert systems and success stories; and practical software through artificial intelligence.