The history and features of Decision Support Systems (DSS) and use of the approach by academic administrators are discussed. The objective of DSS is to involve the manager/decision maker in the decision-analysis process while simultaneously relieving that person of the burden of developing and performing detailed analysis. DSS represents a convergence of the technologies and bodies of knowledge in the following areas: (1) computer hardware and software technology, especially microprocessor systems, (2) data processing and information systems theory and applications, and (3) management-science or operations-research modeling and analysis techniques, including both analytical- and simulation-modeling approaches. Characteristics of a DSS include the following: it is computer based; it is interactive; it includes a user friendly command language; it utilizes models; there is easy access to databases; it can use graphics; it allows a flexible decision-analysis process; and it supports managerial judgment. Using DSS to model the tuition-and-fee allocation process is considered, with attention to the dialog subsystem, the model subsystem, and the data subsystem. Finally, goals that are included in the DSS (aggregate, individual, and comparison), are identified, along with factors considered in goal formulations. (SW)