Rule Engine
A rule engine is a software system that executes business rules in a runtime production environment, separating business logic from application code to enable dynamic decision-making. It uses a set of if-then statements (rules) to evaluate data and trigger actions, often supporting forward or backward chaining inference. Rule engines are commonly used in applications requiring complex, frequently changing logic such as fraud detection, pricing, or compliance systems.
Developers should use rule engines when building systems with complex, volatile business logic that needs to be managed independently from core code, allowing non-technical stakeholders to update rules without redeploying the application. They are ideal for domains like insurance underwriting, loan approvals, or e-commerce promotions where rules change often and require transparency and auditability. Rule engines also help in scenarios requiring high-performance decision automation, such as real-time fraud monitoring or dynamic pricing engines.