1. Decision Support System (DSS) :
It’s a computer based system that aids the process of decision making. It is an interactive, flexible and adaptable computer system. It is especially developed for supporting the solution of a non-structured management problem for improved decision making.
DSS are a specific class of computerized information system that supports business and organizational decision-making activities.
Advantages :
- It saves time.
- Enhances efficiency.
- Reduces the cost.
- It improves personal efficiency.
- It increases the decision maker satisfaction.
Disadvantages :
- Information Overload.
- Status reduction.
- Over-emphasize decision making.
2. Executive Information System (EIS) :
EIS is defined as a system that helps the high-level executives to take policy decisions. This system uses high level data, analytical models and user friendly software for taking decisions. It is a structured, automated tracking system that operates continuously to keep everything managed. It provides exception and status reporting capabilities.
Advantages :
- Easy to use.
- Ability to analyze the trends.
- Time management.
- Efficiency.
- Enhances business problem solving.
Disadvantages :
- Functions are limited.
- Difficult to keep current data.
- System can run slow.
- Less reliable.
Difference between DSS and EIS :
| DSS | EIS |
|---|---|
| It is used by professionals. | It is used by executives. |
| It is required for day-to-day operations. | It is required for strategic plans and procedures. |
| It deals with semi and unstructured data. | It deals with only unstructured data. |
| It consists of only internal information. | It consists of both internal and external information. |
| It allows taking non-routines decisions. | It allows taking decisions to meet the strategic goals of the organization. |
| It is used with mainframes, micro and distributed systems. | It is used with distributed systems. |
