Information fusion: a decision support perspective

The focus of most information fusion research, so far, has been on the technology, i.e. information processing techniques and algorithms. Consequently, there is a lack of research concerning the actual usage of information fusion systems in terms of cognitive and organisational issues such as supporting both individual and group decision making. This paper provides a retrospective of information fusion research so far and a future vision of information fusion systems as actual decision support systems. A methodology for developing decision support systems is suggested which could not only ensure the effectiveness of information fusion systems as decision support systems but also provide a natural user perspective and top-down approach to information fusion in general.