Decision support systems and characteristics

 Q.   What do you understand by decision support system?

Decision support systems (DSS) are a subset of computer-based information systems (CBIS). The general term 'computer-based information systems' is a constellation of a variety of information systems such as office Automation systems, transaction processing systems, management information systems and management support Systems.

 Management support systems consist of DSS, expert systems and executive information systems. In the Early 1970s, scholars in the CBIS area began to recognize the important roles information systems play in supporting managers in their semi-structured or unstructured decision-making activities.

 It was argued that Information systems should exist only to support decisions, and that the focus of the information systems Development efforts should be shifted away from structured operational control to unstructured critical decisions in organizations.

 Decisions are irreversible and have far-reaching consequences for the rest of organizational life. The importance of effective decision making can never be overemphasized. Decision making is, in effect, Synonymous with management.

Characteristics of DSS

1. DSS are designed specifically to facilitate decision processes.
2. DSS facilitate and support specific decision- making activities and/or decision processes.
3. DSS should support rather than automate decision making.
4. DSS are intended to improve the accuracy, timeliness, quality and overall effectiveness of a specific decision or a set of related decisions.
5. DSS should be able to respond quickly to the changing needs of decision makers.
6. DSS are computer-based systems designed for interactive use by decision makers or staff users who control the sequence of interaction and the operations performed.
7. DSS are intended for repeated use. A specific DSS may be used routinely or used as needed for ad-hoc decision support tasks.