Monash University

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

The objective of this unit is to introduce the areas of decision making, decision support, and systems and to serve as a foundation unit for the Decision Making/Decision Support sequence of units. The unit will introduce the history of decision support systems, the types of decision support systems, the ideas of normative and descriptive models for decision making and management. The emphasis will be given to the role of modeling in decision support systems. The discussion on normative models will include "rational" decision making and value focused thinking. Descriptive models will be based on Simon's principle of bounded rationality. The concepts of systems thinking and systems practice will be introduced together with the elements of Soft Systems Methodology. Traditional systems development approaches will be discussed together with their application to DSS (providing a focus on soft systems and prototyping). Finally, the unit will discuss the role of systems dynamics modelling for decision support.

Objectives

At the completion of this unit, students will acquire Knowledge and Understanding of:

1. Role of effective decision support in organisations;
2. The normative view of decision making;
3. The scope and applications of decision support systems;
4. Problem recognition techniques used for decision support;
5. Problem structuring techniques used for decision support;
6. The process of decision support system development;
7. Testing and evaluation of DSS.

At the completion of this unit, students will develop the following Attitudes, Values and Beliefs:

1. Recognise the value of effective decision making within an organisation;
2. Adopt a critical approach to normative and behaviorial aspects of decision support and their use in a business context;
3. Appreciate the value of of using formal DSS methodologies;
4. Appreciate the limitations of formal decision support;
5. Appreciate the risks and benefits associated with DSS development.

At the completion of this unit, students will develop the following Practical Skills:

1. Manage business problem solving activities;
2. Use problem recognition techniques;
3. Use problem structuring techniques;
4. Assess DSS limitations;
5. Analyse appropriateness of different types of DSS for a given business situation;
6. Develop simple spreadsheet-based decision support systems.

In addition, it is expected that the following Relationships, Communication and Team Work skills will be developed and enhanced:

1. Document and communicate a case for the DSS;
2. Work in a team during DSS design and usage stages;
3. Communicate during, and coordinate the decision making life cycle.

Assessment

Examination 60%. Assignments, class tests and laboratory exercises: 40%. Students must pass the examination in order to pass the unit.

Contact hours

4 x contact hrs/week

Prerequisites

Completion of 12 points at 1st year level fron FIT or BusEco