Desc Support Syst Engr

Studies design of computerized systems to support individual or organizational decisions. Teaches systems engineering approach to decision support system (DSS) development. DSS is end product of development process, and process is key to successfully integrating DSS into organization. Any DSS is built on a theory (usually implicit) of what makes for successful decision support in given context. Empirical evaluation of specific DSS and the underlying theory should be carried on throughout development process. Course examines prevailing theories of decision support, considers issues in obtaining empirical validation for theory, and discusses empirical support that exists for theories considered. Students design decision support system for semester project.