Computer assisted decision support systems: their use in strategic decision making

Two national mail surveys were conducted to determine the use of computers and decision support systems for strategic decision making in non academic settings. The results suggest that computers and computer generated information are used to a great degree by decision makers to enhance their own abilities. Sometimes, input based upon experience and personal knowledge is used for the computer generated model. Decision makers with backgrounds in accounting are more likely to use computers for decision making than are anyone else, although managers with systems backgrounds use a wider variety of computer applications. Computer systems are used for an individual's decision making for business, and most strategic decisions are ultimately made by an individual, rather than a group. Group discussions are common, however, before a decision is made, and impact that decision. Information generated by computers is used before participating in discussions, and occasionally during those discussions. Computer communication by the decision makers is not substantial.