The anonymity and proximity factors in group decision support systems

A group decision support system (GDSS) is an interactive computer-based information system which combines the capabilities of communication technologies, database technologies, computer technologies, and decision technologies to support the identification, analysis, formulation, evaluation, and solution of semi-structured or unstructured problems by a group in an user-friendly computing environment. Following the completion of GDSS facilities, preliminary results on the effects and effectiveness of GDSSs on the group decision making process have been reported. This paper sets forth to critically evaluate recent literature on anonymity of proponents and proximity of group members in connection with the use of GDSSs in group meetings. It questions the assumptions made and research methodologies used in laboratory experiments. Some of the experimental results are found to be inconclusive and contradictory. It points out why some of the experiments are unrealistic, and thus the experimental results cannot be generalized. It is argued that group dynamics, organizational settings, social contexts, and behavioral aspects are all important ingredients in shaping the outcomes of using GDSSs at group meetings, and therefore cannot be ignored by GDSS researchers.