An interdisciplinary approach for exploring the impact of individual characteristics in the context of GSS research

While GSS models view individual member characteristics as explanatory variables, little research has been done to examine the impact of these variables on the group process. One explanation for this dearth of research is simply that the number of possible dimensions of individual characteristics which could be explored is extremely large. The work of mental model researchers provides an excellent starting point for more closely examining the unique knowledge, understandings and perspectives that individuals bring to the group process. In this paper, we detail and illustrate an interdisciplinary approach which addresses two significant barriers confronting GSS researchers interested in exploring this area: the extremely time consuming methodologies required to elicit and represent mental models, and the lack of a means to form groups based on the similarity of the mental models of the group members. The approach integrates theories and techniques for three different disciplines – Cognitive and Social Science, Production and Operations Management, and Operations Research.