The Policy-Based Management Natural Language Parser (PBEM) is a rules-based approach to enterprise management that can be used to automate certain management tasks. This parser simplifies the management of a given endeavor by establishing policies to deal with situations that are likely to occur. Policies are operating rules that can be referred to as a means of maintaining order, security, consistency, or other ways of successfully furthering a goal or mission. PBEM provides a way of managing configuration of network elements, applications, and processes via a set of high-level rules or business policies rather than managing individual elements, thus switching the control to a higher level. This software allows unique management rules (or commands) to be specified and applied to a cross-section of the Global Information Grid (GIG).
This software embodies a parser that is capable of recognizing and understanding conversational English. Because all possible dialect variants cannot be anticipated, a unique capability was developed that parses passed on conversation intent rather than the exact way the words are used. This software can increase productivity by enabling a user to converse with the system in conversational English to define network policies. PBEM can be used in both manned and unmanned science-gathering programs. Because policy statements can be domain-independent, this software can be applied equally to a wide variety of applications.
This work was done by Mark James of Caltech for NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
This software is available for commercial licensing. Please contact Karina Edmonds of the California Institute of Technology at (626) 395-2322. Refer to NPO-45816.
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Policy-Based Management Natural Language Parser
(reference NPO-45816) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document titled "Policy-Based Management Natural Language Parser" (NPO-45816) from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory outlines a sophisticated approach to enterprise management through the use of a rules-based system known as Policy-Based Enterprise Management (PBEM). This system is designed to automate various management tasks by establishing policies that address likely situations, thereby simplifying the management of complex endeavors.
PBEM operates on the principle of using high-level business policies instead of managing individual network elements, applications, or processes. This abstraction allows for the application of unique management rules across a broad spectrum of the Global Information Grid (GIG), enhancing operational efficiency and consistency. The document emphasizes the importance of maintaining order, security, and alignment with organizational goals through these policies.
A significant focus of the document is the development of a natural language parser capable of understanding conversational English. This capability is crucial because most users do not communicate in perfect English, and the parser must be robust enough to interpret various dialects and informal language. The system is designed to parse based on the intent of the conversation rather than the exact wording, which is a challenging task in natural language processing and remains an active area of research.
The document also serves as a technical support package, providing information under NASA's Commercial Technology Program. It aims to disseminate the results of aerospace-related developments that have broader technological, scientific, or commercial applications. The document includes contact information for further inquiries, emphasizing the collaborative nature of NASA's innovative partnerships.
In summary, the Policy-Based Management Natural Language Parser represents a significant advancement in the automation of management tasks through the use of high-level policies and natural language understanding. This technology not only streamlines operations but also addresses the complexities of human communication, making it a valuable tool for organizations looking to enhance their management capabilities. The document highlights the potential for wider applications beyond aerospace, inviting further exploration and collaboration in this innovative field.
