DSS Configurations It supports individual members and an entire team. It is used repeatedly and constantly. It has three major components: data, models, and a user interface. It uses subjective, personal, and objective data. It is used in the private sector. It helps the user to make faster, smarter, better decisions.

DSS Versus EDP Dimension DSS EDP Use User Goal Time horizon Objective Active Line and staff management Effectiveness Present and future Flexibility Passive Clerical Mechanical efficiency Past Consistency

Concepts Underlying DSS Definitions Source DSS Defined in Terms of Gorry and Scott-Morton (1971) Little (1970) Alter (1980) Moore and Chang (1980) Bonczek et al. (1989) Keen (1980) Problem type, system function (support) System function, interface characteristics Usage pattern, system objectives Usage pattern, system capabilities System components Development process

What is a DSS Application A DSS is an approach (or methodology) for supporting decision- making. It uses an interactive, flexible, adaptable CBIS especially developed for supporting the solution to a specific nonstructured management problem. It uses data, provides an easy user interface, and can incorporate the decision-maker’s own insights. In addition, a DSS usually uses models and is built (often by end-users) by an interactive and iterative process. It supports all phases of decision-making and may include a knowledge component. Finally, a DSS can be used by a single user on a PC or can be Web- based for use by many people at several locations.

Key Characteristics and Capabilities of DSS 1 14 2 Semistructured and unstructured problems Standalone, integration and Web-based Support managers at all levels 13 Data access 3 Support individuals and groups 12 Modeling and analysis 4 Interdependent or sequential decisions 11 DSS Ease of development by end users 5 Support intelligence, design, choice, implementation 10 Humans control the machine 6 Support variety of decision processes and styles 9 Effectiveness, not efficiency 8 7 Interactive ease of use Adaptable and flexible

A Schematic View of DSS Other computer-based systems Internet, intranets, extranets Data: external and internal Data management Model management External models Knowledge-based subsystems User interface Manager (user) Organizational KB

The Structure of the Model Management Subsystem Models (Model Base) Strategic, tactical, operational Statical, financial, marketing, management science, accounting, engineering, etc. Model building blocks Model Directory Model Base Management Modeling commands: creation Maintenance: update Database interface Modeling language Model execution, integration, and command processor Data management Interface management Knowledge-based subsystem

Schematic View of the User Interface System Data Management and DBMS Knowledge-based subsystem Model Management and MBMS User Interface Management System (UIMS) Natural Language Processor Input Output PC Display Action Display Languages Languages Printers, Plotters Users