FABRIC is introducing a next-generation Q&A tool designed to make the testbed more accessible than ever. The new tool streamlines how users discover information, learn core concepts, and navigate the platform, helping new and experienced researchers accelerate their work across FABRIC’s nationwide infrastructure.
Developed by a team lead by research cyberinfrastructure architect Mami Hayashida from the University of Kentucky (UK) and including UK students Joshna Kurra and Alex Raketich, the AI-powered tool retrieves and synthesizes information from FABRIC documentation, the knowledge base, and community discussions to provide fast, accurate responses. Building on experience developing an AI code generation tool, the Q&A tool has evolved into a comprehensive resource supporting diverse user needs. “FABRIC is an incredibly useful resource for users across networking, cybersecurity, distributed computing, and AI-enabled systems. We want FABRIC to be accessible to all types of users, so we made this Q&A tool to help lower the learning curve,” explained Hayashida.
Joshna Kurra, a data science master’s student working with Hayashida, explains how different types of users may utilize this tool to familiarize themselves with FABRIC or find answers to detailed technical questions. “A newer FABRIC user might have questions about FABRIC-specific terms, like facility ports or slices. Or they could ask even broader questions, like why is FABRIC useful for people in cybersecurity and networking?” says Kurra. She explains the Q&A tool can also answer technical questions users would previously have had to post on the FABRIC forum and wait for a response. “Without the Q&A tool, you might have to read through several articles or wait on a response for a forum post, but now all you need to do for reliable answers is type your question into the tool.”
The Q&A tool is currently available to authenticated users as the development team continues refining accuracy, metadata organization, and documentation. Alex Raketich added “.. even small changes to retrieval or metadata can make a huge difference in how helpful the final answer is. It’s been exciting to build something that directly supports the FABRIC community.” These enhancements establish broader availability and future integration with additional AI-powered features under active development. The team is also advancing earlier prototypes focused on automated code support, supporting a cohesive suite of AI-driven services to improve onboarding, scale experimentation, and boost research productivity across the FABRIC ecosystem.
Together, these efforts represent a significant step toward intelligent, automated assistance within complex research environments, helping users rapidly access essential information, deepen their understanding, and focus on high-impact experimentation.
Upcoming Webinar: The development team will share an in-depth look at the new Q&A tool during the next FABRIC webinar on January 20, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET. Register Here.