Decision Support Systems
Decision Support Systems (DSS) are computer-based information systems that assist individuals or organizations in making decisions by analyzing data, models, and knowledge. They combine data from various sources, apply analytical models, and present insights through interactive interfaces to support semi-structured or unstructured decision-making processes. DSS are designed to enhance decision quality, efficiency, and effectiveness rather than automate decisions entirely.
Developers should learn about DSS when building applications that require data-driven decision-making, such as in business intelligence, healthcare diagnostics, financial planning, or supply chain management. It is particularly useful for scenarios involving complex data analysis, predictive modeling, or scenario simulation where human judgment is essential, as DSS tools help users explore alternatives and assess outcomes based on real-time or historical data.