In his interesting contribution to the study of the conversion of limited-entry decision tables to flowcharts or sequential testing procedures, Verhelst [1] presents two algorithms, one of which is claimed to produce the optimal flowchart with respect to run-time. Unfortunately this minimum run-time algorithm does not always produce the result claimed, as we illustrate by example below.
P. J. H. King
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Some comments on the use of ambiguous decision tables and their conversion to computer programs
This paper comments upon recently published work on decision table translation using methods similar to the rule-mask technique. The applicability of these methods under various possible conventions on overall table meaning is discussed, and it is argued that there is a place both for the multi-rule and the single-rule (or action set) convention in decision table usage.
Conversion of decision tables to computer programs by rule mask techniques
The rule mask technique is one method of converting limited entry decision tables to computer programs. Recent discussion suggests that in many circumstances it is to be preferred to the technique of constructing networks or trees. A drawback of the technique as hitherto presented is its liability to produce object programs of longer run time than necessary. In this paper a modification of the technique is discussed which takes into account both rule frequencies and the relative times for evaluating conditions. This can materially improve object program run time.
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