The scientific approach to problem solving and decision support systems

This paper discusses some of the critical issues in the study and design of decision support systems (DSS). The contributions and limitations of the hard or mathematically oriented approach to DSS design are also reviewed. This is followed by a brief overview of the various soft or less mathematical system methodologies. It is suggested that some of the difficulties faced by current DSS research are due to limitations inherent in the underlying methodologies, in particular, those based on a hard or a mathematical perspective. Finally, the paper explores the rapidly expanding literature on soft systems methodologies, and assesses what it has to offer DSS research and applications.