Which type of system primarily serves knowledge and data workers throughout significant tasks?

The correct answer focuses on the role of an Executive Support System (ESS) in supporting knowledge and data workers during critical tasks. ESS is designed specifically to assist senior executives in decision-making processes by providing them with interactive tools and information tailored to their strategic management needs. It aggregates data from various sources and offers analytical capabilities to support high-level planning and decision-making.

An ESS not only emphasizes the need for real-time data but also incorporates external information, allowing executives to assess trends and performance indicators effectively. It facilitates a comprehensive view of the organization’s operations, ensuring that leaders can make informed decisions based on robust data analysis.

In comparison, while other systems such as Office Automation Systems (OAS), Decision Support Systems (DSS), and Knowledge Work Systems (KWS) serve important functions, they do not specifically target the strategic level of management or the essential tasks that executives face in their roles. OAS focuses more on clerical and administrative support, DSS emphasizes aiding in specific decision-making scenarios, and KWS is aimed at enhancing the productivity of knowledge workers, without necessarily having the broader and executive-focused capabilities of an ESS.