GDSS laboratory experiments and field studies: closing the gap

The authors highlight key differences between previous experimental use of GDSS (group decision support systems) and the previous use of GDSS by business groups, and to discuss the implications that these differences have for researchers in designing future GDSS research. The authors examine previous GDSS laboratory studies and field studies. They then highlight key differences for researchers between these experimental sessions and business group sessions. These differences include organizational context, group characteristics, group size, task, GDSS support, information management needs, and group work process. They discuss two sets of implications for researchers that follow these key differences. First, the need to embark on a synergistic program of research that combines experimental research with field studies is examined. Secondly, the authors present a series of suggestions for enhancing experimental and field study GDSS research.