As previously mentioned it is necessary to define the problem framework within which a DSS has to work to support the decision making process. In terms of the DSS design proposed in this document, an attempt will be made to support SEA in implementing the NWA (1998). For the purpose of this document a DSS will be defined as a system consisting of a set of tools that will enable Catchment Management Agencies (CMAs) to develop their Catchment Management Strategy (CMS) and accordingly assess individual licensing applications taking into account the equity, efficiency and sustainability criteria set out in the NWA (1998).

In undertaking an SEA in terms of the NWA (1998), consideration needs to be given to the impact and dependencies of water use by a number of water-using activities from various perspectives, including socio-economic and environmental considerations. It is from this perspective that the decision making process will be analysed in the development of a DSS.

In the following sections the processes of

• information acquisition (Section 4);
• problem structuring which includes the information, modelling, data and database requirements to establish a DSS for the DWAF SEA team (Sections 5 to 7);
• establishing a scenario generator to integrate the models used in the DSS with the database available (Section 8); and
• displaying and assessing information using the DSS (Section 9) are discussed.