Describe the characteristics of DSS and explain how DSS differ from ESS.
Decision-support systems (DSS) support nonroutine decision-making for middle managers.
DSS provide sophisticated analytical models and data analysis tools to support semistructured and unstructured decision-making activities.
DSS use data from TPS, MIS, and external sources, in condensed form, allowing decision makers to perform “what-if” analysis.
DSS focus on problems that are unique and rapidly changing; procedures for arriving at a solution may not be fully predefined.
DSS are designed so that users can work with them directly; these systems include interactive, user-friendly software.
Executive support systems help senior managers address strategic issues and long-term trends, both in the firm and in the external environment.
ESS address nonroutine decisions requiring judgment, evaluation, and insight because there is no agreed-on procedure for arriving at a solution.
ESS provide a generalized computing and communications capacity that can be applied to a changing array of problems.
ESS are designed to incorporate data about external events, such as new tax laws or competitors, but they also draw summarized information from information from internal MIS and DSS.
ESS are designed for ease-of-use and rely heavily on graphical presentations of data.