ISMS: Computer-Aided Analysis for Design of Decision-Support Systems

This paper demonstrates concepts, collectively termed interpretive structural modeling, which can aid in the development of decision-support systems through: (1) creating a structure which helps identify the presence or absence of information necessary for decision-making; (2) providing a convenient framework for evaluating control subsystems; (3) defining levels in the system hierarchy; (4) specifying subsystems at each level, and (5) facilitating user participation in the design process. The procedures described operate without the requirement of an a priori knowledge of system structure. This feature and the programmability of the approach (ISMS) help analysts and users think and communicate effectively about complex design issues.