Data Rules in a Decision Support System - Coursework Example

Data Rules in a Decision Support System of Discuss how data “rules” are developed and used to support the knowledge-based subsystem in the article, Knowledge acquisition, synthesis, and validation: A model for decision support Systems. Simply put, a DSS or a decision support system is interactive software that takes certain data parameters as input from the user and provides an assessed output that is meaningful to the stakeholders. In doing so, it logically assesses the input comparing it to the prior knowledge base embedded into it.

It then provides useful information as output. This information assists the user of the system in decision-making, identification, and solution of problems. The article ‘Knowledge Acquisition, Synthesis and Validation’ focuses on a specific type of Decision Support System. This Decision Support System focuses on the problem-solving expertise embedded into it by comparing its inputs with facts, rules, and procedures already present in its data bank (also referred to as Data Warehouse). The Knowledge-Based Subsystem in the DSS uses this data input (that may be mere facts, figures, personal knowledge, and business models) to analytically identify any probable problems that may arise, possible decisions that can be made, and possible solutions to an issue.

The particular DSS under consideration in the said article concerns a knowledge-based system that would assist nurses in decision-making under critical conditions. The knowledge base in the said Dss is maintained by using a database that stores information. The data that construct this database includes input from medical professionals, theoretical practice maps, prior evidence, and practices. This accompanied by input from the patient and user (i.e. nurses) at intermittent levels provides hypothetical results regarding the identification of the problem facing the patient and the possible solutions for it.