How does "rule resolution" work in Pega?

Rule resolution in Pega is a vital mechanism that allows the system to determine the most appropriate rule to execute based on various contextual factors and the specificity of the rules defined in the application. This process is essential because Pega applications often contain multiple rules that could potentially address a given request, and rule resolution helps pinpoint the best match based on the current environment.

The resolution process considers aspects like the class hierarchy, the applicable context, and the level of specificity of the rule. For example, if there are multiple versions of a rule in different subclasses or with different parameter values, rule resolution will prioritize those rules that are most specific to the needs of the current case. This ensures that the application behaves as intended, providing the most relevant responses tailored to the specifics of each situation.

In contrast, establishing a generic rule overlooks the dynamic nature of applications and does not account for the changing contexts. Similarly, while users may need to resolve conflicts, the primary function of rule resolution is to automate this decision-making process as much as possible, reducing the need for manual intervention. Lastly, while the idea of eliminating rules altogether seems appealing, it fundamentally contradicts the principles of Pega, which relies heavily on rules to encapsulate behavior and logic throughout the application lifecycle.