Definition[]
An automated decision making applications (ADMA) are
| “ | computer programs that initiate action . . . on the basis of programable decisionmaking criteria established by management and incorporated in computer instruction. The distinguishing characteristic of these applications, as compared to other computer application programs, is that many of the computer's actions take place without manual review and evaluation.[1] | ” |
Overview[]
One objective of using computers operating under automated decisionmaking applications is to take advantage of their speed, accuracy, storage capabilities, and capacity to obey predetermined instructions. These applications are needed in part, because of the tremendous volumes of information to be obtained, manipulated (processed), analyzed, and acted on in carrying out agency missions and goals.
Automated decisionmaking applications process large volumes of transactions put into the computer system from various sources. They make repetitive decisions that, in many cases, previously have been made by people. The decision instructions, built into the program, ask questions about the transactions and then initiate many actions through output. The actions depend solely on the criteria (logic) and data inside the computer system.[2]