Development of the EIS concept and its implementation in the RAN

Executive information systems (EIS) and Executive support systems (ESS) are a form of decision support system (DSS) for senior executives. This paper presents an overview of the EIS concept and its implementation in the Royal Australian Navy. The terms EIS and ESS are defined, and their relationship to other forms of decision support are discussed in terms of their purpose and function. The difference between management functions dealing with operational and tactical issues and those dealing with strategic issues are also adressed as these concepts are fundamental to the development of user oriented decision support systems. The development of the EIS concept as it would apply to a particular organisation is discussed and the methodology, pitfalls and successful strategies are described. The RAN has implemented an EIS and this report briefly discusses the development and implementation of an EIS drawing on that experience. Finally, the value of an EIS will be addressed, some observations will be made on the future of EIS and DSS, and recommendations put forward as to what research avenues could provide useful results.