Counteracting anchoring effects in group decision making

Abstract

Similar to single user decisions, group decisions can be affected by decision biases. In this paper we analyze anchoring effects as a specific type of decision bias in the context of group decision scenarios. On the basis of the results of a user study in the domain of software requirements prioritization we discuss results regarding the optimal time when preference information of other users should be disclosed to the current user. Furthermore, we show that explanations can increase the satisfaction of group members with various aspects of a group decision process (e.g., satisfaction with the decision and decision support quality).