Decision Support Systems: How to Make Better Business Decisions with Data

Exploring the Decision Support System (DSS) With the rapid advancements in computer science and information technology, large organizations are at the forefront of technological progress. We’ve previously discussed Expert Systems, and now, let’s delve into another critical support system extensively utilized by various multinational corporations – the Decision Support System (DSS).

What is Decision Support System (DSS) ?

A Decision Support System (DSS) is a computer-based information system designed to assist organizations in their decision-making activities. DSS is a valuable tool for supporting the planning and decision-making processes within an organization. It accomplishes this by gathering information from various sources to fulfill the organization’s decision-making needs.

Fundamentally, DSS gathers and structures data to align with specific requirements, enabling the generation of meaningful decisions. DSS excels in tackling unstructured problems, ultimately enhancing the quality of decision-making. It’s important to note that DSS can operate in diverse ways, leading to the absence of a universally accepted definition. Decision Support Systems

One of the key strengths of DSS is that it aids human decision-makers rather than attempting to replace them. DSS systems are user-friendly and do not necessitate extensive training; users only need a good understanding of the problems at hand.

DSS Characteristics

1. DSS supports decision making.
2. DSS addresses relatively unstructured problems.
3. DSS offers a user-friendly computer interface.
4. DSS are flexible and adaptable.
5. DSS are suitable for solving both structured and unstructured problems.
6. DSS can update themselves as needed, making them versatile tools for decision support.

DSS Components

USER: DSS users typically consist of managers facing unstructured problems with no straightforward solutions, whether they are in top-level or middle-level positions. DSS aims to offer these managers optimal solutions.

DATABASES: To make well-informed decisions, DSS relies on having access to comprehensive information stored in databases. These databases encompass both routine and non-routine data from various sources. DSS collects information from both internal and external databases.

External databases can provide insights into external factors like competitors’ actions, recent government policies, evolving market conditions, and emerging trends. Internal databases supply information from within the organization, such as reports on raw material consumption, daily production, and accounts receivable and payable.

PLANNING LANGUAGE: DSS employs two types of planning languages.

General Purpose Planning Language: This language enables users to carry out routine tasks like data retrieval.

Special Purpose Planning Language: These languages, while more limited in scope, excel at specific tasks compared to general-purpose planning languages.

MODEL BASE: The Model Base serves as the core of the DSS. It assumes responsibility for addressing the unstructured problems presented by managers. The Model Base conducts a series of computations to generate sound decisions. Within the Model Base, various mathematical, financial, and statistical functions are stored and employed.

Applications of DSS

• Cost Accounting System: Organizations aim to reduce operational costs and enhance efficiency and profitability. DSS aids in achieving these goals.
• Capital Budgeting System: DSS helps organizations make informed, beneficial long-term investment decisions.
• Budget Variance Analysis: DSS assists organizations in maintaining actual performance that surpasses the required standard performance.

Benefits of DSS

1. Enhances organizational learning.
2. Improves the decision-making process within the organization.
3. Automates aspects of managerial work by addressing unstructured problems.
4. Provides a competitive advantage to the organization.
5. Generates evidence to support decision-making.
6. Efficient operation of DSS can make it a valuable tool.

Decision Support System FAQ