Question 1

Implementation is probably the most important and critical step in the entire DSS design process because without a successful implementation, the greatest DSS ever created will go unused or even unnoticed.

Accepted Answer

Implementation is crucial because no matter how well-designed a Decision Support System (DSS) is, it must be properly implemented to be effective and used by decision-makers. Without successful implementation, the system's potential benefits are unrealized.

Question 2

Implementation is a static process, occurring at the end of DSS development.

Accepted Answer

Implementation is a dynamic process that occurs throughout the DSS (Decision Support System) development, involving adjustments and improvements based on feedback and changing requirements.

Question 3

The Lewin-Schein theory of change is structured and rigid.

Accepted Answer

The Lewin-Schein theory of change combines Kurt Lewin's three-step change model (unfreeze-change-refreeze) with Edgar Schein's insights on change, emphasizing a more flexible, iterative process that acknowledges the complexity and psychological aspects of change in organizations.

Question 4

The essence of the Kolb-Frohman model is the assumption that the probability of successful implementation will result from a specific pattern of actions by the users and managers.

Accepted Answer

The answer of The essence of the Kolb-Frohman model is...

Question 5

Alter suggested that the initial impetus behind the development of a DSS can be categorized via: (1) user stimulus, (2) managerial stimulus and (3) environmental stimulus.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Alter suggested that the initial impetus behind...

Question 6

The Service with a Smile implementation pattern is the most common approach for a DSS.

Accepted Answer

The Service with a Smile implementation pattern is not a recognized approach for Decision Support Systems (DSS); instead, common DSS implementation patterns focus on data management, model management, and user interface.

Question 7

The logic behind user satisfaction as a measure of success is that the users will view a DSS as favorable if it is perceived to be effective in supporting the decision-making process. The more effective the system appears to be, the more satisfied the users will be with the system.

Accepted Answer

User satisfaction is often used as a measure of success for Decision Support Systems (DSS) because it directly correlates with the perceived effectiveness of the system in aiding the decision-making process. If users believe the system effectively supports their decision-making, their satisfaction with the system increases, making user satisfaction a valuable metric for evaluating the success of a DSS.

Question 8

The number of times a DSS was accessed is the most effective metric of its success.

Accepted Answer

The effectiveness of a Decision Support System (DSS) is better measured by the quality of decisions made using it, user satisfaction, and the impact on organizational performance, rather than just the frequency of access.

Question 9

Davis developed a method of measuring user satisfaction of information systems based upon perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use.

Accepted Answer

Fred Davis developed the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) in 1989, which measures user acceptance of information systems, focusing on perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use as the primary factors for determining system use.

Question 10

Perceived usefulness focuses on the attitudes of the user with regard to the degree to which the system is perceived to bring utility or value to the activity within which it is used.

Accepted Answer

Perceived usefulness is indeed about the user's attitudes towards the utility or value that a system adds to the activities for which it is used, reflecting how the system enhances job performance or task completion.

Question 11

Perceived ease-of-use focuses on the degree to which the users of the system perceive the task to be easy to do.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Perceived ease-of-use focuses on the degree to...

Question 12

One method of assessing the success of a DSS is to focus on the technical functionality of the system.

Accepted Answer

The technical functionality of a DSS is a key factor in assessing its success.

Question 13

Utilizing the ratio of direct cost to direct benefit is an example of using organizational success measures to assess a DSS.

Accepted Answer

Utilizing the ratio of direct cost to direct benefit is an example of using organizational success measures to assess a Decision Support System (DSS), as it evaluates the system's efficiency and effectiveness in achieving business objectives.

Question 14

Integrating the DSS into the organization simply means that the new application is merged into the existing computing infrastructure such that the appearance of a seamless architecture appears to the user.

Accepted Answer

Integrating a Decision Support System (DSS) into an organization involves merging the new application with the existing computing infrastructure in a way that it appears as a seamless architecture to the user, ensuring smooth operation and user experience.

Question 15

In functional integration, the various decision support functions with the DSS are integrated and linked to those of the existing infrastructure. This linking includes providing common menu access, inter- and intra-application transfer of data and tools, and a common application interface at the same desktop client or workstation.

Accepted Answer

Functional integration in the context of Decision Support Systems (DSS) involves integrating and linking decision support functions with the existing infrastructure to ensure seamless operation. This includes common menu access, data and tool transfer between applications, and a unified application interface, enhancing efficiency and user experience.

Question 16

Physical integration involves the architectural bundling of the hardware, software, and data communication characteristics associated with the new DSS into the existing set of physical systems.

Accepted Answer

Physical integration in the context of Decision Support Systems (DSS) indeed involves the combination of hardware, software, and data communication features of the new system with those of the existing systems to ensure they work together seamlessly.

Question 17

Physical integration can begin before a DSS is designed.

Accepted Answer

Physical integration refers to the process of combining various hardware and software components into a unified system. This can begin before a Decision Support System (DSS) is fully designed, as the foundational IT infrastructure and components can be selected and integrated based on anticipated requirements and functionalities of the DSS.

Question 18

One of the least common problems faced during the implementation and integration of virtually any computer-based information system, including DSS, is the resistance by certain individuals or groups to the changes associated with the new system.

Accepted Answer

Resistance to change is actually one of the most common problems encountered during the implementation and integration of computer-based information systems, including Decision Support Systems (DSS). This resistance can stem from fear of the unknown, fear of job loss, lack of understanding, or a preference for existing processes.

Question 19

Resistance to change can result from a number of different factors, including fear of the unknown.

Accepted Answer

Resistance to change often stems from fear of the unknown, as individuals may be unsure how changes will affect their roles, routines, or the overall stability of their environment.

Question 20

Managers represent the single resistance group to the implementation of a DSS, because they fear a loss of importance.

Accepted Answer

While some managers may resist the implementation of a Decision Support System (DSS) due to fear of loss of importance, resistance can also come from other sources such as employees, lack of understanding of the system, or organizational culture. Managers are not the single resistance group.

Quiz 15: Implementing and Integrating Decision Support Systems