Combining computational models and interactive visualization to support rational decision making

Decision making is a complex process consisting of several consecutive steps. Before converting a decision into effective action the problem to be tackled needs to be analyzed, alternative solutions need to be developed, and the best solution needs to be picked. In many cases computational models support decision makers in this process. Therefore, providing an intuitive access to these model-driven techniques is crucial. In this approach, we introduce a decision support system that provides visual-interactive access to three computational models - a simulation model, an optimization model, and an opinion mining model - covering different aspects of decision making. For each model our decision support system realizes the visual access to the model, an in-depth analysis of the generated solutions, and the comparison of alternative solutions. Finally, we evaluate the usefulness and the usability of our system in a use case in the field of public policy making.