Decision$-$support systems range from spreadsheets, in which users perform their own analysis, to expert systems, which attempt to incorporate the knowledge of experts in various fields and suggest possible alternatives. The appropriate DSS for a particular situation depends on the nature of the problem, the planning horizon, and the type of decisions that need to be made. In addition, there is frequently a trade$-$off between generic tools that are not problem$-$specific and allow analysis of many different kinds of data, and often more expensive systems that are tailored to a specific application. Within the various disciplines that make up supply chain management, DSS are used to address various problems, from strategic problems such as network planning to tactical problems such as the assignment of products to warehouses and manufacturing facilities, all the way through to day$-$to$-$day operational problems such as production scheduling, delivery mode selection, and vehicle routing. The inherent size and complexity of many of these systems make DSS essential for effective decision making. The DSS that various companies and industries employ depends, among other things, on manufacturing characteristics, demand fluctuation, transportation costs, and inventory costs. Different systems typically support the strategic, tactical, and operational levels. Some of the supply chain components predominantly support one level, while others may support more than one, depending on how they are defined and utilized.

Question $14$ options:

True

False