Which is NOT a characteristic of executive support systems?

Executive support systems (ESS) are designed specifically to aid senior management in making strategic decisions by providing summarized and high-level information rather than detailed operational data. These systems integrate data from various sources to support long-term planning and decision-making processes, focusing on the broader organizational goals and strategic vision.

The first characteristic, which suggests that executive support systems provide detailed operational data, is incorrect in the context of ESS. Instead, ESS summarize and present important data in a way that enhances topline decision-making, allowing executives to focus on strategic insights rather than being bogged down by the intricacies of operational details. Thus, the correct understanding of what differentiates ESS from other information systems lies in its emphasis on strategic perspectives and long-range planning rather than detailed operational data.