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Executive support systems (ESS) are computer-based systems that provide top managers with the capability to attain easy access to internal and external information which is relevant to strategic decision making and other executive responsibilities. The terms "executive support system" and "executive information systems" (EIS) are often used interchangeably, although executive support system typically refers to a system with a broader set of capabilities.
International Data Corporation, a Massachusetts-based market research firm, indicates that executive support systems are increasingly gaining in importance and are predicted to be the fastest growing segment of the overall decision support system SS) market. A recent study of the use of executive support systems in Fortune 500 companies conducted by the authors found that approximately one-third of the respondents (30.8 per cent) currently utilize an ESS for decision support, to aid in personal productivity, and/or communication.
Executive support systems are expected to spread even further across the Fortune 500 with one-quarter of those responding managers not currently using an ESS indicating that they were implementing or planning to implement such a system in the very near future.
The opportunity for strategic advantage through technological exploration is now available for senior executives through the use of ESS technology characterized by:
* the capability to access internal and external information critical to understanding and assessing situations quickly;
* the capability to communicate and confront problems electronically;
* the capability to report information with a combination of graphics, tables, and text;
* scheduling, agenda setting, and follow-up capabilities necessary to facilitate the business of the organization;
* the capability to interface and integrate with other software;
* statistical and drill down capabilities;
* functionality for decision support, what-if analysis, and queries; and
* ease of use, including menu systems, touch-screen, and minimal learning time for users.
Not just CEOs
Executive support systems are specifically designed for senior executives and have made many CEOs first-time hands-on computer users. The ESS study conducted by the authors was directed to CEOs, with instructions to complete the questionnaire or forward it to a more appropriate individual to complete. More than one-half (61.5 per cent) of the questionnaires returned were completed by the chief executive officer of a Fortune 500 company. One-quarter of the respondents were individuals at the...