Decision Support Systems
A decision support system (DSS) is a computerized tool that assists individuals and organizations in making well-informed decisions in various fields, as it combines data analysis, modeling, and interactive interfaces to tackle complex problems. ACTA’s research team can tailor DSS for any industry, profession, or domain, such as the medical field, government agencies, agricultural concerns, and corporate operations.
Decision support system models are the mathematical or logical representations of the decision problems and scenarios that a DSS can use to provide solutions and recommendations. Different types of DSS models can be classified based on their purpose, design, and scope.
Models
Some common types of DSS models are
Communication-driven models
These are models that enable collaboration and communication among multiple decision-makers or stakeholders. They can facilitate information sharing, brainstorming, negotiation, voting, and consensus building.
Data-driven models
These are models that rely on large and complex data sets to generate insights and analyses. They can perform data mining, data visualization, data warehousing, online analytical processing (OLAP), and business intelligence (BI).
Knowledge-driven models
These are models that use expert knowledge and rules to provide advice and recommendations. They can emulate human reasoning and problem-solving skills using artificial intelligence (AI) techniques such as expert systems, fuzzy cognitive maps, neural networks, fuzzy logic, and genetic algorithms.
Model-driven models
These are models that use mathematical and statistical methods to simulate and optimize decision outcomes. They can perform calculations, projections, evaluations, and comparisons based on predefined criteria and assumptions. Examples of model-driven models are spreadsheets, linear programming, decision trees, and simulation models.
A DSS can use one or more of these models to support different types of decision problems and scenarios. The choice of the model depends on the nature, complexity, and objectives of the decision situation. A DSS can also combine different models to create a hybrid or integrated system that can offer more comprehensive and flexible solutions. ACTA’s research team expertise is mainly focused on knowledge-driven models that involve expert systems and Fuzzy Cognitive Maps.