ITEC 485: Decision Support Systems

Prerequisites: ITEC 281 and ITEC 340

Credit Hours: (3)

Data and modeling solutions to semi-structured business problems including expert systems, executive information systems, on-line analytical processing, natural language interfaces, and ad-hoc query and reporting tools.


Detailed Description of Content of the Course

Topics include:
1. Computer-based decision support systems as currently developed and utilized by business decision makers
2. Decisions and decision makers
3. Modeling decision processes
4. Designing and building Decision Support Systems (DSS) and Enterprise Systems (ES)
5. The DSS and ES development process
6. The use of application  software to construct prototype decision support system components
7. Spreadsheet models used in the decision making process
8. Concepts and structure of ES


Detailed Description of the Conduct of the Course
The course is delivered in a lecture/discussion format. Formal class presentations may be augmented with videotapes and demonstrations of computer applications. Student projects including a term paper may be assigned.


Goals and Objectives of the Course

Students who complete the course will be able to:  
1. Identify benefits and limitations of DSS and ES use.
2. Describe the importance of user interface in DSS and ES.
3. Define the characteristics a good decision.
4. Describe the process of choice.
5. Describe the concept of ES knowledge engineering and how it is distinct from traditional IS development.
6. Compare how DSS and ES differ from and relate to other types of information systems.
7. Create expert systems applications using an ES shell
8. Create a stand-alone or web based DSS or ES


Assessment Measures

Assessment of the student's success will be based on the instructor's selected combination of quizzes, examinations, homework projects, term papers, and class participation.


Other Course Information

None.


Review and Approval

September 2001     Updated     John P. Helm, Chair