2.3-6 ESS

Question 1

ESS

Answer 1

Executive Information System:

• Used to solve UNSTRUCTURED problems @ senior management
• Custom built
• Must provide info specific to the problem
• Allows users to ASK questions
  (DSS allows users to ANSWER questions)

Question 2

Characteristics of an ESS

Answer 2

1. Tailored: custom designed
   * get the right info at the right time to the right person in the right format
2. Ease of Use
3. Capable of Drilling Down
4. Compatible with external sources
5. Helpful when there is uncertainty
6. Future orientated: strategic
7. Linked with value-added business processes

Question 3

Capabilities of an ESS

Answer 3

Designed to assist with problem-solving or decision making for overall profitability & direction:

1. Support overall vision: (senior executives create mission statement)
2. Support for strategic planning:
   Long term
3. Support for organization & staffing:
   Downsizing, labour negotiations
4. Support for strategic control:
   Monitoring & managing overall operations
5. Support for crisis management:
   Disasters, emergencies