Springer Handbook of Automation

Abstract

This chapter places decision automation in a broader context of using information technologies in decision making. Key definitions and a brief history of computerized decision support create important boundaries. Then a description and explanation of characteristics of computerized decision support systems (DSS) clarifies this application domain. After reviewing management information needs, a modern taxonomy of decision support systems is briefly summarized. Issues associated with building DSS and various architectures are reviewed before concluding the overview.