WHO WE ARE
The Decision Theater (DT) is a university wide resource supporting and enabling research activities utilizing expert
analytics, data visualization, and predictive modeling. We seek early and ongoing involvement with researchers valuing
data presented in highly collaborative, immersive, and interactive environments. Decision Theater’s tools assist
researchers, and their audiences, to gain greater understanding of highly complex problems while providing decision
makers the ability to forecast outcomes of policies and decisions prior to implementation.
WHAT WE DO
We approach complex problems in a deliberate, multi-phased process:
CORE COMPETENCIES
Complex Systems Framework (CSF)
The CSF links together unrelated sophisticated computational models and creates graphical dashboards with
interactive input and output parameters linked to the models. Decision making is enhanced by this user interface
that allows for multiple iterations of simulation and forecasting of proposed policies and problem solutions. The
tool was developed in-house and is open source.
Data Mining, Analytics, and Visualization
Decision Theater specializes in the collection, storage, and analysis of large data sets. In particular, capabilities in
social media data mining, network analysis, and sentiment analysis have been recently developed. Additionally,
development of capabilities using Tableau, SPSS, SAS, Minitab, Tableau, MySQL, Hadoop, R, Python, Gephi, and
NodeXL are ongoing. Continued growth and practice in this area will provide increased ability to rapidly ingest,
analyze, and visualize client data.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
The DT’s ongoing partnership with the MapStory foundation has enabled us to build competencies in the GIS
space. Through the use of ArcGIS, the MapStory platform, and other software tools, DT staff is capable of
“storytelling” through temporal and spatial data.
Computational Capabilities
Cutting-edge hardware is continually implemented to enable decision support systems. Last years’ renovation saw
the deployment of a high-performance server that offers 128GB of RAM, 300TB of storage, and 256 virtual
processors. Future technology undertakings will emphasize mobility and interactivity; IT staff are currently
working to deploy mobile decision theater environments that seamlessly run decision support models and tools.
CURRENT WORK
Arizona Budget Analysis Tool (AzBAT). The AzBAT is an interactive model examining the impacts of expenditure and revenue related
policy decisions on the State of Arizona’s budget. The tool, powered by highly sophisticated econometric statistical models, affords
policymakers the ability to simulate budgetary decisions and view impacts in real time. Currently in the early stages of engagement
with the Arizona State Legislature and other government agencies, the applied model can meaningfully assist budgetary planning.
Social Media Mining for US Central Command. Decision Theater continues to grow its relationship with the Department of Defense
while improving real-time data mining and social media analysis capabilities. Currently in a capabilities demonstration phase with
Central Command, Decision Theater is collecting and analyzing conflict area Twitter data to assist in measuring the effectiveness of
Information Operations.
MapStory Foundation Partnership. The Decision Theater’s long-term partnership with the MapStory Foundation enables researchers
to explore novel approaches to storytelling using Geographical Information Systems (GIS) to convey information temporally and
spatially. In 2014, the MapStory platform garnered acclaim from the Washington Post, National Geographic, and Arizona Republic—
all publishing articles highlighting a variety of stories published by DT researchers. Earlier this year, DT’s efforts in the GIS space resulted
in recognition as a MacArthur Media & Learning competition finalist.
Mexico Energy Modeling. The Decision Theater recently constructed a statistical model designed to optimize energy investments and
promote long-term prosperity in Mexico. In partnership with Petróleos Mexicanos (PEMEX), Secretaría de Energía (SENER), Hacienda,
and other foreign and national investors, the DT created a holistic model that allows for various investment scenarios to be simulated
in real time. The model visually displays the impact of various investments—e.g., fractured deposits, shale, etc.—on socio-economic
variables such as GDP, job creation, tax revenue, and etc. As a result of this effort, the SENER’s Minister of Energy held a planning
session at the DT in March 2015. Additionally, Tecnológico de Monterrey constructed a 7-screen environment on-site and joined the
Decision Theater Network. Minister level engagements are ongoing.
The Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) DT has completed the first iteration model of this proposed free trade
agreement between the European Union and the United States. The model demonstrates the advantages and disadvantages of the
proposed agreement region by region allowing elected officials and decision makers, in the US and Europe, the opportunity to
understand impacts on specific geographic areas and industries. Additional phases are being developed as parties seek greater model
resolution in specific areas of interest.
FACILITY
Fig. 1. The Decision Theater drum. Recent display upgrades and videoconferencing enhancements improve the client-centric nature of the DT.