Group Decision Support Systems: Features and Benefits
Group Decision Support Systems (GDSS)
A Group Decision Support System (GDSS) is a computer-based interactive system that facilitates the solution of unstructured problems by a set of decision-makers working together as a group.
Components of a GDSS
- Hardware
- Software
- Human Resources
- Procedures
Minimum Hardware Requirements
- An I/O device.
- A processor to perform the necessary processes and generate results useful to decision-makers.
- A communication line between the I/O device and the processor, enabling interactive communication between group members.
- A single monitor or screen to display the contributions made by each group member or to analyze results.
Software Components of a GDSS
- A database that contains information related to the decision to be made and allows for querying and searching for specific topics.
- A model base, offering different ways to make a decision.
- Specific application programs for the group, such as word processors, plotters, spreadsheets, or statistical packages.
- A flexible and easy-to-use interface, allowing the executive to interact with the system effectively without requiring extensive advice or training.
Human Resources
This includes the individuals involved in the decision-making process and a GDSS operator as a facilitator.
GDSS Operator
A person who knows the package, understands how it works, and knows how to operate it.
Facilitator
Someone who knows the potential of the package being used, maintains a neutral position regarding the group, and guides the members in the process being performed.
Roles of Different People in the Group
Leader or Facilitator
Instructs and directs the operation of the group. Responsible for achieving certain goals during the working sessions.
Applicant (Leader or Manager of the Group)
Their role is essential to define the objectives of the meetings and select the activities to be implemented during the decision-making session.
Participants
People who are part of the team. Their primary role is to collect and provide information to the board to support compliance with the planned target for the group.
Procedures
Facilitate the effective use and operation of technology systems by group members.
Phases of a Group Decision-Making Meeting
- Idea Generation
- Organization of Ideas
- Idea Assessment
- Analysis and Exploration
- Information Management
Features of GDSS
- GDSS systems are specially designed to support group decisions; they are not made up of elements of existing systems.
- The goal is to support the work of policymakers, so the use of this system improves the decision-making process and resulting decisions.
- A GDSS is easy to understand and use.
Advantages of GDSS
- Encourages group members to work together.
- Improves the preparation stage of the meeting.
- Provides equal opportunity for participation by all group members.
- Provides a mechanism to address the group on key issues and discard behaviors that harm the development of joint decision-making.
- Supports the development of an organizational memory from one board meeting to another.
- Improves the quality of decision-making because the anonymity of contributions allows for greater and better participation by group members.
Disadvantages of GDSS
- Unfamiliarity with using a GDSS.
- Resistance to change by administrators, who may feel that this system could displace them.
- The responsibility for making a decision can be diluted since the contributions are anonymous, and the decision represents the consensus of the group.
- Lack of a developed culture of teamwork and consensus within the group, which may lead to the forced use of GDSS.
Groupware
A new technology linked to the needs of working groups in business, where computer software is designed specifically for group work support.
Advantages of Groupware
Allows linking departments, people in different physical locations, or entire companies, thus improving the efficiency and speed of team projects.
Relationship Between DSS, EIS, and GDSS
They share a common goal: to support the decision-making process, although each has its own characteristics.
Integration of GDSS with EIS
The EIS presents useful information for the executive to make decisions, and this information can be displayed on a board where a GDSS is used.