DEVELOPMENT OF DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEMS
The development of a decision support system is determined by the types of information and the facilities needed for taking the decision.
Decision support systems are developed using programming language or produced by packages specially in cooperating decision support development tools.
Conventional high-level languages, such as C++ and BASIC, can be used to develop DSSs. They are extremely flexible. However DSSs using this language involving a lengthy analysis and decision phase.
Fourth-generation or very high-level languages are more appropriate. They are particularly useful as they are generally data base-oriented.
This is important for those systems that really on data retrieval and analysis for decision support.
An example of prominent four generation language is SQL, which can used on many relation database system such as ORCAL.
The selection of language depends on factors such as:
• Availability of language and support for it.
• Experience of developers with various languages.
• Amount of manipulation vs. presentation of data.
• Need to document and maintain the program.
• Frequency of use and number of users.
The advantages of using programming languages are that:
• Application development is speedy.
• Many are end-user oriented.
• They are more likely to the decorating rather than procedural.
There are three methods for developing DSSs.
1. DSS generator
2. DSS shells
GROUP DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEMS
Group decision support systems (GDSS) are computer based information systems that facilitate the free flow and exchange of ideas and information among group members while maintaining their anonymity.
Other terms have also been coined to describe the application of information technology group setting.
The terms include Group support system (GSS), Computer supported cooperative work (CSCW), Computerised collaborative work support, Electronic meeting system (EMS).
Group typically consist of less than 20 people who arrive at decisions through taking process. The decision may be taken by vote for often by negotiation, consensus or preference ranking.
There are three types of computer based support are available in GDSS. These are
Decision networks:
This type allows participants to communicate though networks with each other or a central
database.
Applications software is using a local area network and microcomputers. The technology filters out many of the typical group dynamics of a participative meeting.
Decision room
Participants are located in one place the decision room.
The purpose of this to enhance participant interaction and decision making by computerized support within a fixed period of time using a facilitator.
Tele/computer conferencing:
If groups are composed of members or subgroups that are geographically dispersed, tele/computer conferencing provides for interactive connection between two or more decision rooms. This interaction will involve transmission computerized and audiovisual in information.
