Technology for decision making includes computer systems that execute the complex Material Requirements Planning (MRP) algorithm for manufacturing, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems that support decision making across all functions within a business in an integrated fashion, Decision Support Systems (DSS) that use a variety of models to help managers perform what-if analysis regarding potential decisions prior to making them, Expert Systems that attempt to replicate the decision making process that would be followed by highly trained individuals like medical doctors and engineers, and software simulations for many different types of decisions, including those in design engineering.

Select one of the technologies mentioned in this week’s introduction (MRP, ERP, DSS, Expert Systems, software simulations) and one analytical method and research it in the Library. Then, write a paper that summarizes the selected technology and analytical method and how these are used in decision making. Compare and contrast how these have been used by two real-world businesses. Begin your paper with an introduction that states a thesis and explains how the body of the paper is arranged to support it. Close the paper with a conclusion in which you summarize and synthesize the main points presented in your paper.

Consider the following as you prepare your paper:
•How does this technology and analytical method support an ethical and successful business?
•Does this technology and analytical method support communications at all levels of the organizations you selected? Why or why not?
•How does this technology and analytical method influence approaches to decision making?

Support your paper with a minimum of five scholarly resources. In addition to these specified resources, other appropriate scholarly resources, including older articles, may be included.

Length: 10-12 pages, not including title and reference pages

Your paper should demonstrate thoughtful consideration of the ideas and concepts presented in the course by providing new thoughts and insights relating directly to this topic. Your response should reflect scholarly writing and current APA standards. Be sure to adhere to the Academic Integrity Policy.