The Balance Sheet Method at Work: A DSS for the U.S. Coast Guard Fleet Mix Problem

Abstract This paper discusses Fleet Mix, a decision support system (DSS) we have developed for the United States Coast Guard (USCG). It examines the methodology used, the reasoning that led to the methodology, the program itself, the development process, and the technology that allowed the efficient development of this program. We discuss our preliminary findings that 1) the methodology seems sound and is amenable to changes in focus and scope, 2) the program is useful and has been amenable to change, and 3) the development approach used was vital to the success of the program.