Prof. Name Position (123) University Name Chapter 1: Introduction Spreadsheet-Based Decision Support Systems

2 Overview  1.1 Introduction to DSS  1.2 Defining DSS  1.3 DSS Applications  1.4 Textbook Overview  1.5 Summary

3 Introduction to DSS  A decision support system (DSS) gives its users access to a variety of data sources, modeling techniques, and stored domain knowledge via an easy to use GUI.  For example: –Using data residing in spreadsheets or databases –Preparing mathematical models using this data –Solving or analyzing these models using problem-specific methodologies –Assisting the user in the decision-making process through a graphical user interface  Learning DSS development skills, which combine OR/business skills with information technology (IT) skills, will make students highly sought after in the modern workplace.

4 Defining a DSS  A decision support system (DSS) is a model-based or knowledge-based system intended to support managerial decision making in semi- structured or unstructured situations (Turban and Aronson, 2001).  A DSS is not meant to replace a decision maker, but to extend his/her decision making capabilities.  Characteristics of a DSS include: –Combining human judgment with computerized information –Designed to be user-friendly –Uses models for analyzing decision-making situations –Improves the effectiveness of making a decision –Provides managerial support

5 Defining a DSS (cont’d)  A DSS application contains five components: –Database –Model base –Knowledge base –GUI –User Model BaseKnowledge Base Database GUI User Decision Support System

6 Components of a DSS Data Analysis Data Modeling and Optimization Simulation Presentation of Results Graphical User Interface Information System Decision Support System

7 DSS Applications  Car production  Railroad Car Management  Portfolio Management and Optimization  Facility Layout

8 Textbook Overview  Overview of Excel  Overview of VBA for Excel  Overview of Case Studies  Overview of Appendices

9 Overview of Excel  Excel Basic Functionality –Chapter 2: Excel Basics and Formatting –Chapter 3: Referencing and Names –Chapter 4: Functions and Formulas –Chapter 5: Charts –Chapter 6: Pivot tables  Excel Extended Functionality –Chapter 7: Statistical Analysis –Chapter 8: Solver and mathematical programming –Chapter 9: Simulation –Chapter 10: Working with Large Data

10 Overview of VBA for Excel  Introduction to VBA –Chapter 11: Visual Basic Environment –Chapter 12: Recording Macros  Coding in VBA –Chapter 13: Objects, Properties, and Methods –Chapter 14: Variables –Chapter 15: Sub Procedures and Function Procedures –Chapter 16: Programming structures –Chapter 17: Arrays  Creating a User Interface –Chapter 18: User Interface  Re-visiting Excel Extended Functionality Using VBA –Chapter 19: Solver –Chapter 20: Simulation –Chapter 21: Working with Large Data

11 Overview of Case Studies  Chapter 22: The DSS Development Process  Chapter 23: GUI Design  Chapter 24: Programming Principles  Case Studies in IE/OR and Business –Case Study 1: Birthday Simulation –Case Study 2: Eight Queens –Case Study 3: Inventory Management –Case Study 4: Warehouse Layout –Case Study 5: Forecasting Methods –Case Study 6: Facility Layout –Case Study 7: Portfolio Management and Optimization –Case Study 8: Reliability Analysis –Case Study 9: Retirement Planning –Case Study 10: Queuing Simulation: Single Server and Multi Server  We have developed 25 case studies. 10 case studies are included in the book. The remaining case studies are available at the website: ideas.com. ideas.com

12 Overview of Appendices  Appendix A: Excel Add-Ins –Data Analysis Toolpack –The Solver and Premium Solver –Crystal Ball –StatTools  Appendix B: Debugging and Error Checking –Types of Errors –The Debug Toolbar –The Debug Windows –Debugging tips –Error Checking  Appendix C: Advanced Programming Topics –Object Oriented Programming in VBA for Excel –Opening Other Applications From VBA

13 Summary  Decision support systems are model-based or knowledge-based systems which support managerial decision making.  A DSS is not meant to replace a decision maker, but to extend his/her decision making capabilities.  There are five components to a DSS: database, model base, knowledge base, GUI, and user.  Spreadsheet-Based DSS applications combine Excel and VBA features to create a complete DSS which integrates data, models, methodologies, and user interfaces.

14 Additional Links  (place links here) –Example DSS applications –Course website and/or syllabus