DSS as an application of general systems theory

This paper examines how an object called a decision support system (DSS) is a system from the point of view of GST (general systems theory) and how GST is related with the development of DSS in a positive way. Since a DSS is a complicated system, it cannot be described by one model. We will proceed the consideration in the following different levels: functional level, structural level, process level and physical level. We will show that on each level GST provides a useful framework to deal with a DSS and the general formulation by GST directs what is to be done in the development of DSS. On the progress of the development we have found GST can help us with conceptualizing a DSS which is most important in finding a correct research direction. The presented models are the basic framework of our current system, a product of GST.