13 SUMMARY

---- 3.13 SUMMARY

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We have introduced the fundamentals of DSS.'We began the chapter with a discussion of the Southwest Airlines vignette. We then covered the key DSS characteristics and capabilities. We summarize the major capabilities of DSS components (excluding the knowledge component) in Figure 3.7. For further details, see Daniel Power's DSS Web tour at dss.cba.uni.edu/tour/dsstour.html.

.:. CHAPTER HICHLICHTS

 There are several definitions of DSS.  The data management subsystem usually includes a DSS  A DSS, also known as a business intelligence system, is

database, a DBMS, a data directory, and a query facility. designed to support complex managerial problems that

 Data are extracted from several sources, internal and other computerized techniques cannot. DSS is user-

external.

oriented, uses data, and models.  The DBMS provides many capabilities to the DSS, ranging  DSS can provide support in all phases of the decision-

from storage and retrieval to report generation. making process and to all managerial levels for

 The model base includes standard models and models individuals, groups, and organizations.

specifically written for the DSS.  DSS is a user-oriented tool. Many applications can be

 Custom-made models can be written in third- and constructed by end users.

fourth-generation languages, in special modeling  DSS can improve the effectiveness of decision-making,

languages, and in Web-based development systems decrease the need for training, improve management

(Java, etc.).

control, facilitate communication, save effort by the user,  The user interface (or dialog) is of utmost importance. reduce costs, and allow for more objective

It is managed by software that provides the needed decision-making.

capabilities. Web browsers often provide a friendly,  The major components of a DSS are a database and its

consistent, and common DSS graphical user interface. management, a model base and its management, and a

 The DSS is supplemented by the user's intellectual user-friendly interface. An intelligent (knowledgebased)

capabilities. The user is knowledgeable about the component can also be included. The user is also

problem being solved.

considered to be a component.  DSS can be used directly by managers (and analysts), or it  The components of DSS are typically interconnected

can be used via intermediaries.

via Internet technologies. Web browsers are typically  DSS applications can be delivered and run on the Web. used as user interfaces.

It is convenient to distribute them to remote locations.  Data warehouses, data mining, and online analytical processing (OLAP) have made it possible to develop DSS quickly and easily.

CHAPTER 3

DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEMS: AN OVERVIEW

.:. KEY WORDS

<ad hocDSS

- extraction

• model building blocks

- facilitator (in GSS)

- business (system) analyst

- object

- operational models - business intelligence

- business analytics

- graphical user interface (GUI)

- organizational knowledge base - data warehouse

- group support system (GSS)

- query facility - database

- institutionalized DSS

- staff assistant - database management system

- intermediary

- strategic models (DBMS)

- Internet

- tactical models - directory

- intranet

- user interface - DSS application

-model base

- model base management system

- user interface management

- expert tool user system (UIMS)

(MBMS)

.:. QUESTIONS FOR REVIEW

10. List some of the major functions of an MBMS. common? What features differentiate them?