How could a social network system be integrated into a DSS (decision support system)?

DSSs, or decision support systems, are computer informational analysis programs that analyze multiple raw data sources in order to present useful information to be implemented into problem solving and decision making processes. The dual goal is that a DSS computer program software application will help decision makers identify and solve problems while facilitating more informed decisions. 

A DSS can be used to gather information from business related sources, like projected sales and sales trends, and from general sources, like documents or tacit (experiential) knowledge. As the journal Decision Support Systems points out, DSSs are used in multiple disciplines from linguistics to mathematical modeling to psychology to economics and statistics and to data base management. How social networking information could incorporate into this very expansive informational analysis application is an interesting consideration.

Social networking is most succinctly defined as an Internet-based means of connecting with and expanding business or personal connections with clients and/or friends. Using LinkedIn as an example, as it is business relationship oriented, when you realize that LinkedIn social networks are mines of raw language data, tacit knowledge data (work experience and expertise), article and other uploaded document data, plus much more, it is easier to understand how social network systems might be used as an operational element in a DSS: social network systems could be approached just like any other raw data bank with specific types of information gathered and presented in an analyzed form applicable to problem solving and decision making.