Dissertation Information for Susan E. Cirillo NAME: - Susan E. Cirillo
DEGREE:
- Ph.D.
DISCIPLINE:
- Library and Information Science
SCHOOL:
- Simmons College (USA) (1994)
ADVISORS: - Peter D. Hernon
COMMITTEE MEMBERS: - None
MPACT Status: Fully Complete
Title: Decision support systems : applications of multi-purpose systems in public and academic libraries in the United States
Abstract: Decision support systems (DSS) are interactive data analysis and reporting systems that provide models to support semi- structured and unstructured decisions. Proponents and developers of library decision support systems have discussed library applications of DSS for the last two decades. However, no published study has examined managers and managerial uses of multi-purpose systems operating in academic and public libraries in the United States. The study was designed to fill the void in the literature. It examined the actual application of multi-purpose DSS in academic and public library settings to determine uses, roles, benefits, and limitations. Only one functioning multi-purpose DSS operational in an academic or public library in the United States was verified - DeKalb County Public Library in Decatur, Georgia. The case study method was used to examine the DSS at that library. The DCPL began planning for the development of the system in 1989. The conceptual model for the system includes five components: Administration/Finance, Collections, Public Services, Community/Demographic Characteristics, Personnel, and Physical Facilities. Data are drawn from the NOTIS automated library system, from branch and department monthly reports, and from published demographic sources. The system generates regular and ad hoc reports in tabular and graphic format. Managers at the director/assistant director, division/ department head, and line manager levels use the system; the most frequent use was reported at the upper two levels. The DSS supports semi-structured decisions at the operational, management, and strategic-planning levels. Managers use the system at three stages of the decision process - to monitor resources (Intelligence), to analyze options and project needs (Design), and to evaluate past choices (Review). The primary benefits relate to the reliability and accessibility of the data available for decision making. System limitations are related to the fact that managers do not have direct access to the system. As well, there is a need to develop an online linkage to County payroll system and to extract additional data from the NOTIS system. Drawing upon the insights gained at DeKalb, the field research project also discusses the application of a multi-purpose system for academic libraries. It identifies topics for further investigation and notes the value of having DSS data to support decision making. In these times of accountability and resource reallocation, more libraries should consider the development of a DSS. They can begin incrementally - module by module - and develop a system useful for all levels of managers.
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MPACT Scores for Susan E. Cirillo A = 0
C = 0
A+C = 0
T = 0
G = 0
W = 0
TD = 0
TA = 0
calculated 2008-01-31 06:33:21
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