Question

Define and contrast between the terms ESS and DSS
(OR)
11.(b) Define and contrast between the terms knowledge worker and data
worker
Answer the question in paragraph form and when converted to microsoft word it will be half page

Answer 1

A Decision Support System (DSS) and an Executive Support System (ESS, also called an Executive Information System) are both information systems that aid decision making but serve different levels and types of decisions. A DSS is interactive software used primarily by managers and analysts to support semi-structured or unstructured decisions; it combines data from internal and external sources with quantitative models and analytical tools (what‑if, optimization, simulation, OLAP) so users can explore alternatives, run scenarios, and derive recommendations for tactical or operational problems. An ESS, by contrast, is designed for senior executives and focuses on high‑level, aggregated, strategic information—dashboards, trend summaries, exception reports, and external environment indicators—presented in an easy, visual format for quick overview and long‑term planning. Key contrasts: DSS emphasizes analytical depth, model-driven investigation, and detailed data manipulation for problem solving, while ESS emphasizes breadth, concise aggregation, and situational awareness for strategic decisions; DSS users are typically hands‑on and technically adept, ESS users need rapid insight and simplicity; DSS often works with finer‑grained operational data and simulations, ESS with summarized metrics and external indicators; and DSS supports tactical/short‑to‑medium term choices, ESS supports strategic/long‑term direction. Both complement broader MIS infrastructures but have different design priorities, strengths, and limitations—DSS can be complex to use, ESS can oversimplify context.