Some recommendations for designing effective DSS (abstract only)

Choosing the proper hardware and software tools is only one phase of implementing and managing Decision Support Systems. Generally, organizations pass through three phases in adopting DSS. The first phase is concerned with learning and experimenting with the system. In the second phase management assesses the benefits and rewards of end-user computing. In the third phase management tries to regain the control which was loosened because of the unrestrained growth of DSS. Many organizations put great emphasis on the first and third phases of the DSS and do not put much attention to the second phase which is concerned with gaining value from the DSS Systems. To optimize the benefits of DSS, management must develop a well-balanced approach that ensures both control of the system and getting rewards from the system. Decision Support Systems must be the mind-support for management to identify the high-impact areas within the organization which lead to the development of a well-balanced approach. This paper presents some recommendations for designing such DSS systems.