The computational knowledge engine, Wolfram Alpha, is continuing to fascinate many. WebProNews spoke with Barak Berkowitz and Schoeller Porter both of Wolfram Alpha to understand more about how the engine works and where it could be headed.

At the time of the taping of this interview, Berkowitz had been with the company for only a matter of days. He has been in the tech industry for 30 years and his resume includes early search engine Infoseek and more recently the social platform Six Apart.

Based on his experience, he has noticed that, with technology, people have the power to do things that they never thought were possible.  Berkowitz tells WPN he sees that same “powering factor” in Wolfram Alpha since people have not previously had access to the facts and calculations the engine provides.

Many people have wondered where Wolfram Alpha fits in regards to the other search engines. As Berkowitz explains, people look at search engines to find information on the Web. He says Wolfram Alpha creates facts.

The engine is already embracing social media with location and customization aspects. Over time, Berkowitz says the engine will include more social features that are relevant to user needs. Porter also points out that the engine wants users to be able to easily share Wolfram Alpha information with their friends.

Wolfram Alpha has partnered with Bing and Berkowitz indicates that the engine would like to be integrated everywhere people go for information. He also believes that the factual information Wolfram Alpha provides is the next level of search.