The influence of facilitation in a group decision support systems environment

Abstract

Organisations today face many issues that are complex and ill structured. The complexity of these issues does not lend themselves to structuring and formulation by quantitative models, or simple intuitive problem solving. Group technologies, especially GSS make it possible to enhance the decision making process. It is suggested that facilitated GSS can enhance the quality and quantity of ideas that emerge which assist in making more informed decisions. This research examines the theoretical foundations of decision making in different decision-making environments. Its main focus has been the influence of facilitation in a GOSS environment. The results of a laboratory experiment on facilitated GSS sessions are presented. It was found that facilitation in a GSS environment produced a greater number of unique and better quality ideas. It was also found that the group receiving facilitative support made more informed decisions.