Did task type matter in the use of decision room group support systems? A critical review and a meta-analysis

This research was undertaken to resolve inconsistent findings on the effectiveness of group support systems (GSS) by investigating the effect of task type, which is, arguably, the most important moderator variable. A qualitative review of the literature was conducted to identify task dimensions that may explain the impact of task type on the effectiveness of GSS. The relationship between task dimension and group outcome was examined. Hypotheses were then developed to predict the effectiveness of GSS in supporting the performance of various tasks. These hypotheses were statistically tested using data from 28 experimental studies in a meta-analysis. Results showed that the impact of task type was dependent on how GSS effectiveness was measured. Task type had a significant impact favoring generation tasks when GSS effectiveness was measured by improved communication, member satisfaction, and decision speed. GSS effectiveness as measured by improved decision quality and member participation was not a function of task type. The significant findings on the effect of task type point out the task dimensions that system designers should consider in order to increase the effectiveness of GSS. These findings also have implications for future GSS research in the control and measurement of the effect of task type and in the measurement of GSS effectiveness.