A decision engine is a type of web search engine that uses input from the user in order to provide more relevant results.
Typical search engines provide results based on key words and site popularity meaning that all users searching for the same phrase receive identical results. A decision engine uses input to provide customized results for each individual.
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Typically, a decision engine works in one of two ways. The first is to ask for input at the time of search. For example, when searching for a digital camera online, the engine will allow the user to specify the importance of criteria, such as screen size, megapixels, zoom, body color, etc. The engine then provides a list only of items that match the user's conditions, removing the need for them to compare specs for all items manually.
The second way a decision engine can function is by forming a long-term relationship with the user in order to establish preferences and tastes. Once the engine has a stable profile of the user, it is able to provide very accurate, individual results based on that familiarity.
Microsoft's search engine Bing has been heavily advertised as "the decision engine"[1], though thought by some as more closely related to a web portal.[2] It allows users to book flights, watch Hulu, and view movie times all while staying on the Bing site, a strategy very typical of former portal giants, such as AOL and Yahoo! (popular in the 90's). It does not provide individualized search results.
FindTheBest (website) is an unbiased, data-driven comparison engine that organizes and presents data in a consumer-friendly format so that consumers can make quick and informed decisions based on what’s important to them. FindTheBest is powered by its Data-Driven Content Platform (DDCP), an engine that blends proprietary technology with human curation to organize data in a consumer friendly format across a broad range of Comparisons, including Smartphones, Colleges and Ski Resorts. FindTheBest obtains its information from three sources: Public databases, primary sources (manufacturer websites) and expert sources. The research team reviews all third party edits and listing submissions before approving them.
Hunch is a website, designed as a collective intelligence decision-making system that uses decision trees to make decisions based on users' interest.
Pikimal has developed a website that uses "Pikis" to help users find the best results to fit their specific needs for various topics. For example, if a user is searching for the best dog breed they can choose a popular template, such as "best dog breed for apartments," or they can adjust all of the criteria manually (size, shed, personality, etc.). This allows a user to express their interests in a product or search via a percentage of preference and to filter unwanted results.