This paper considers the existing conceptual base upon which ODSS is built and proposes a means of differentiating it ,fiom related systems such as DSS or GDSS. We argue that any such distinction should be based on the dl~et-ence between the characteristics of groups and organizations. The paper describes the key problems with the core concepts behind ODS?S, and provides a critique ,jiom a theoretical perspective that draws on organizational theoiy and senuotlcs. We also present certain implications of this approach for practice.