Communication and Problem Solving in Diverse Groups. A Comparison of ElectronicMeeting Systems' Use in Dispersed and Face-to-Face Settings

摘要

The hybrid nature of an electronic meeting system (EMS)-as a communication mediumand as a manager of diversity-offers organizations an excellent vehicle for improving group performance, handling stress, and building cohesive teams. This report describes a project that examined the performance and behavior of various decision making groups using an EMS in face-to-face and dispersed settings. Results of this study suggest that the proper task-technology-team fit is a critical factor in determining outcomes. In other words, homogeneous groups needing to discuss issues and resolve ambiguities may require face-to-face meetings, while diverse groups may be able to accomplish the same tasks in dispersed settings using an EMS. However, where the goal is information exchange and uncertainty reduction, lean media such as dispersed EMS may be used just as effectively as any other media by all groups, regardless of their degree of diversity.