Decision makers perceive the decision-making processes for solving complex spatial problems as unsatisfactory and lacking in generality. Current Spatial Decision Support Systems (SDSS) fulfil their specific objectives, but fail to address many of the requirements for effective spatial problem solving, as they are inflexible, complex to use and often domain-specific. As technology progresses, there is an increasing opportunity for the use of SDSS in a number of domains. Flexible support for spatial decision-making to solve complex, semi-structured or unstructured spatial problems can offer advantages to individuals and organisations.

This research attempts to overcome problems identified in the fields of spatial decision-making and SDSS. It synthesises ideas, frameworks and architectures from Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Decision Support Systems (DSS) and SDSS. Concepts from spatial modelling, model and scenario life cycle management, knowledge management and Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) methodology are explored and leveraged in the implementation of a Flexible Spatial Decision Support System (FSDSS) using object-oriented concepts and technologies.

As part of the research, we proposed a generic spatial decision-making process, developed a domain-independent FSDSS framework and architecture to support this process. We also implemented a prototypical FSDSS that acts as a proof of concept for the spatial decision-making process, FSDSS framework and architecture. The proposed spatial decision-making process and the implemented FSDSS were successfully evaluated through five scenarios across spatial decision problem domains including location, allocation, routing, layout, and spatiotemporal.