Learn about the multiple, critical characteristics of first-generation business rules management systems (BRMS), with particular emphasis on key issues hindering customer success. This will set the stage for a deep dive into the next-generation Progress® Corticon® BRMS, tracing its unique model-driven approach and back to fundamental customer needs that have been underserved by first-generation products. Finally, this paper compares the technical differences between rule execution between the Corticon engine and other BRMS vendors’ engines, providing insights into performance and scalability.