INFLUENCE OF COMPUTER-BASED MEETING SUPPORT ON PROCESS AND OUTCOMES FOR A DIVISIONAL COORDINATING GROUP

This research examines the introduction of computer-based group decisi on support systems (GDSS) to members of a division level coordinating group. Participants performed authentic problem formulation tasks whic h varied naturally in degree of structuredness, in two non-GDSS meetin gs then were provided GDSS for four additional meetings. It was propos ed that the introduction of the GDSS and task structuredness would inf luence (1) group process in terms of the amount of divergent and conve rgent thinking communicated during meetings and (2) perceived outcomes regarding quality, satisfaction, understanding, confidence, and commi tment to group positions. Results suggest that GDSS use affected both the total amount and pattern of group communication but not perceived outcomes. Structuredness of the task affected perceived outcomes but n either amount nor patterns of communication. Additional qualitative da ta regarding perceived costs and benefits in using GDSS provide richer explanation for study findings and suggest further lines of inquiry.