---
title: "DSS and GDSS characteristics"
subject: "Information System"
chapter: 4
key: "semester_8/information_system:dss-gdss-characteristics"
source: https://www.bctengineer.com/q/semester_8/information_system/dss-gdss-characteristics
site: BCT Engineering
---

# DSS and GDSS characteristics

Information System · Chapter 4: Decision support and Intelligent systems

- Asked in: 2072 Asoj, 5 marks
- Video: [Decision Support System (DSS) - Types, Characteristics, Components - Knowledge Management System](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-1h1qzXj34) — Unbeaten Learning
- Answer checked by Claude Opus 5.5 (high effort) on 2026-10-14
- Page: https://www.bctengineer.com/q/semester_8/information_system/dss-gdss-characteristics
- Whole chapter: https://www.bctengineer.com/md/semester_8/information_system/chapter-4

## Question

Define and explain DSS systems with suitable diagram. Discuss key characteristics of GDSS systems.

## Short answer

A DSS is an interactive computer-based system helping managers with semi-structured and unstructured decisions using database, model base and interface. GDSS key characteristics are group orientation, anonymity, parallel communication, structured techniques, automatic record keeping, electronic meeting tools, facilitator support, and reduced dominance and conflict.

## Answer

#### Decision Support System (DSS)
A **DSS** is an interactive, computer-based information system that helps managers make semi-structured and unstructured decisions by combining data, analytical models and a friendly interface. It supports, not replaces, the decision maker.

```text
 User <-> User interface (dialogue)
             |
   +-------------+-----------+
   | Model base  | Database  |
   | (what-if,   | (internal,|
   |  forecast)  |  external)|
   +-------------+-----------+
```

Components:
- **Database management** - internal and external data.
- **Model management** - mathematical, statistical, optimisation and simulation models.
- **User interface** - queries, graphs, what-if dialogue.
- **Knowledge component** (optional).

Features: interactive, flexible, supports "what-if" and sensitivity analysis, used by managers. Example: a bank's loan portfolio planning tool.

#### Characteristics of GDSS
A **Group Decision Support System** supports a group of decision makers working together, in the same or different place and time.
1. **Group-oriented** - supports meetings and team problem solving.
2. **Anonymity** of input to reduce bias and fear.
3. **Parallel communication** - all can contribute simultaneously.
4. **Structured techniques** - brainstorming, voting, ranking, Delphi and nominal group.
5. **Record keeping** - automatic memory of discussions.
6. **Electronic meeting tools** - shared screen, chat, polling.
7. **Facilitator support** and network-based access.
8. **Reduces conflict and dominance** and improves participation and decision quality.

## Check yourself

The answer's key points as multiple-choice questions, with the correct option and why.

1. What decisions does a DSS mainly support?
   A. Semi-structured and unstructured decisions, supporting but not replacing the decision maker
   B. Only fully structured routine decisions
   C. Decisions made without humans
   D. Only payroll
   Answer: A. A DSS is an interactive aid for managers. (Key point: DSS purpose)

2. Which are core DSS components?
   A. Only printers
   B. Database management, model management and user interface
   C. Only networks
   D. Only spreadsheets
   Answer: B. DSS combines data, models and a friendly interface. (Key point: DSS components)

3. What kind of analysis does DSS model management enable?
   A. Only data entry validation
   B. Only backup
   C. What-if and sensitivity analysis
   D. Only printing
   Answer: C. Models support what-if and forecasting. (Key point: What-if)

4. Why does GDSS offer anonymity?
   A. To hide records from everyone
   B. To slow the meeting
   C. To prevent voting
   D. To reduce bias and fear of speaking
   Answer: D. Anonymous input encourages honest contribution. (Key point: GDSS anonymity)

5. What is parallel communication in GDSS?
   A. All participants can contribute simultaneously
   B. Only one speaks at a time
   C. Only the leader types
   D. Messages queue overnight
   Answer: A. Parallel input speeds meetings and reduces dominance. (Key point: GDSS parallel)

## Related in Information System

- [Types of IS; MIS vs DSS](https://www.bctengineer.com/question.md?key=semester_8%2Finformation_system%3Amis-vs-dss-characteristics) — Information System, chapter 1
- [GDSS and organizational learning](https://www.bctengineer.com/question.md?key=semester_8%2Finformation_system%3Agdss-organizational-learning) — Information System, chapter 4
- [Enterprise and executive DSS](https://www.bctengineer.com/question.md?key=semester_8%2Finformation_system%3Aenterprise-executive-dss) — Information System, chapter 4
- [MIS vs DSS information and processing](https://www.bctengineer.com/question.md?key=semester_8%2Finformation_system%3Amis-vs-dss-information-processing) — Information System, chapter 4

## Related in other subjects

- [PID controller block diagram, transfer function, characteristics](https://www.bctengineer.com/question.md?key=semester_3%2Fcontrol_systems%3Apid-bd-tf-characteristics) — Control Systems, chapter 7
- [Characteristics of embedded systems](https://www.bctengineer.com/question.md?key=semester_6%2Fembedded_system%3Aembedded-system-characteristics) — Embedded System, chapter 1
- [Project characteristics versus permanent systems](https://www.bctengineer.com/question.md?key=semester_7%2Fproject_engineering%3Acharacteristics-vs-permanent-systems) — Project Engineering, chapter 1
- [Open and closed loop systems with block diagram](https://www.bctengineer.com/question.md?key=semester_3%2Fcontrol_systems%3Aol-cl-bd-role) — Control Systems, chapter 1, asked 2×