The Role of Group Decision Support Systems: Negotiating Safe Energy

Abstract

This chapter explores the use of Group Decision Support Systems (GDSSs) for assisting managers who must negotiate the resolution of messy, complex and/or strategic problems in getting to an agreed outcome. Specifically the chapter reports and reflects upon an intervention involving social and psychological negotiation. Building on existing research in the area of GDSSs (see the chapter by Lewis, this volume), alongside research into the nature of failed decisions, and knowledge of the processes of social and psychological negotiation, this chapter discusses how GDSSs can be used to support and enhance social and psychological negotiation. In particular the chapter focuses upon a study of the use of a specific GDSS to illustrate and explore a number of salient elements.