Strategic group decision support systems--a guide for the unwary

Area of Science:

• Information Science
• Management Science
• Computer Science

Background:

• Growing interest in using information technology to enhance group processes.
• Strategic planning is a key area where group process improvement is sought.
• Existing literature often highlights the benefits of technology in group settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe three major approaches of information technology supporting group process.
• To analyze the favorable reception of Group Decision Support Systems (Group DSS).
• To discuss research findings on the potential negative effects of some Group DSS on meeting quality.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on Group DSS.
• Description of three distinct technological approaches for group support.
• Analysis of research findings, contrasting positive and negative impacts.

Main Results:

• Identification and description of three developing approaches in Group DSS.
• General positive sentiment towards Group DSS in published articles.
• Empirical evidence suggesting some Group DSS can degrade meeting quality.

Conclusions:

• While Group DSS offers potential benefits for strategic planning, careful consideration of specific system designs is crucial.
• Further research is needed to understand and mitigate the negative impacts of certain Group DSS on group dynamics and meeting outcomes.
• The effectiveness of Group DSS is contingent on the specific application and implementation within the group context.