Functional definition of a Decision Support System:
A (computer-based) interactive and adaptable system that aids the process of gathering and analyzing information, gaining new insights, generating alternatives, and making decisions

Value of using a Dengue Decision Support System:

• Collection, management, and analysis of vector and dengue data in a standardized manner.
• Routine production of informative data analysis outputs (charts, graphs, maps, tables) to support decision making.
• Implementation of locally appropriate vector/dengue control program strategies and methodologies through objective and evidence-based decision making.

From: Eisen and Beaty. 2008. Innovative decision support and vector control approaches to control dengue. In Institute of Medicine report on "Vector–Borne Diseases – Understanding the Environmental, Human Health, & Ecological Connections", pp.150-161. The National Academies Press, Washington, D.C.

Full capacity Dengue Decision Support System with potential future addition of vaccination for disease control

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From: Eisen and Beaty. 2008. Innovative decision support and vector control approaches to control dengue. In Institute of Medicine report on "Vector-Borne Diseases – Understanding the Environmental, Human Health, & Ecological Connections", pp. 150-161. The National Academies Press, Washington, D.C.

Basic capacity Dengue Decision Support System

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Potential use of Google Earth versus GIS software in a basic Dengue Decision Support System framework

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From: Lozano-Fuentes and others. 2008. Use of Google Earth to strengthen public health capacity and facilitate management of vector-borne diseases in resource-poor Environments. Bulletin of the World Health Organization 86: In Press.

• Dengue Decision Support System components will be made freely available to prospective end-users from this website when they are ready for distribution.
• Our vision for nationwide Dengue Decision Support System delivery is implementation through an interactive process where the Dengue Decision Support System is adapted in collaboration with national vector and disease control programs to fit seamlessly into existing national public health infrastructures. This model will facilitate delivery across dramatically different resource environments and counteract the risk of the Dengue Decision Support System becoming yet another vertical system in an increasingly fragmented electronic public health infrastructure.
• We envision future nationwide delivery of the Dengue Decision Support System to occur in a four-step process: 1) in-country needs and resource assessment; 2) system adaptation and in-country capacity building; 3) in-country system implementation and training; and 4) ongoing remote and in-country technical support as needed.
• We are currently exploring the potential for establishing a non-profit organization for delivery of decision support systems for dengue and other arthropod-borne and infectious diseases.