An evaluation of a rule-based language for classification queries

Abstract

This paper provides results from a usability experiment comparing two different database query languages. The research focuses on a specific type of query task, namely classification queries. Classification is the process of assigning input data to discrete classes according to application specific criteria. While SQL can be used to perform classification tasks, we seek to discover whether a different type of query language offers any advantages over SQL. We present a rule-based language, which organizes the queries in a logical way. The rule based language is specifically designed to support classification tasks. The usability experiment measures the effectiveness, efficiency and satisfaction of novice and expert users performing a variety of classification tasks. The results show that while both approaches are usable for classification tasks, the rule-based approach was preferred by expert users. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2005.