Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
A Comparison of DSS and MIS
A DSS differs from an MIS in numerous ways, including the type of problems solved, the
support given to users, the decision emphasis and approach, and the type, speed, output, and
development of the system used. Table 10.2 lists brief descriptions of these differences.
Table 10.2
Comparison of DSSs and MISs
Factor
DSS
MIS
Problem Type
A DSS can handle unstructured problems that cannot be easily
programmed.
A DSS supports individuals, small groups, and the entire
organization. In the short run, users typically have more
control over a DSS.
An MIS is normally used only with structured
problems.
An MIS supports primarily the organization. In the
short run, users have less control over an MIS.
Users
Support
A DSS supports all aspects and phases of decision making; it
does not replace the decision maker—people still make the
decisions.
Some MIS systems make automatic decisions and
replace the decision maker.
Emphasis
A DSS emphasizes actual decisions and decision-making styles.
An MIS usually emphasizes information only.
Approach
A DSS is a direct support system that provides interactive
reports on computer screens.
An MIS is typically an indirect support system that
uses regularly produced reports.
An MIS, using printed reports that might be
delivered to managers once per week, cannot
provide immediate results.
System
The computer equipment that provides decision support is
usually online (directly connected to the computer system) and
related to real time (providing immediate results). Computer
terminals and display screens are examples—these devices
can provide immediate information and answers to questions.
Because a DSS is flexible and can be implemented by users,
it usually takes less time to develop and is better able to
respond to user requests.
Speed
An MIS's response time is usually longer.
Output
DSS reports are usually screen oriented, with the ability to
generate reports on a printer.
An MIS typically is oriented toward printed reports
and documents.
Development
DSS users are usually more directly involved in its development.
User involvement usually means better systems that provide
superior support. For all systems, user involvement is the most
important factor for the development of a successful system.
An MIS is frequently several years old and often
was developed for people who are no longer
performing the work supported by the MIS.
At the core of a DSS are a database and a model base. In addition, a typical DSS contains a
user interface, also called
dialogue manager
, that allows decision makers to easily access and
manipulate the DSS and to use common business terms and phrases. Finally, access to the
Internet, networks, and other computer-based systems permits the DSS to tie into other
powerful systems, including the TPS or function-specific subsystems. Internet software
agents, for example, can be used in creating powerful decision support systems. Figure 10.16
shows a conceptual model of a DSS. Specific DSSs might not have all the components shown
in Figure 10.16.
dialogue manager
A user interface that allows decision
makers to easily access and manip-
ulate the DSS and to use common
business terms and phrases.
The Database
The database management system allows managers and decision makers to perform
quali-
tative analysis
on the company's vast stores of data in databases, data warehouses, and data
marts, discussed in Chapter 5. A
data-driven DSS
primarily performs qualitative analysis
based on the company's databases. Data-driven DSSs tap into vast stores of information
contained in the corporate database, retrieving information on inventory, sales, personnel,
production, finance, accounting, and other areas. Tween Brands, Inc. specialty retail store
Stores uses its database to support decision making. According to a vice president and CIO
