ABSTRACT
The issue of whether groups are better decision makers than individuals is not a simple one, and depends on a number of factors, including the type of task involved. Groups typically perform better than individuals when tasks are divisible. Groups also have an advantage in problem-solving tasks because they are more likely to have someone in their midst who has an acceptable answer. Groups have the potential for building on group member’s ideas, and error-trapping their mistakes. On the negative side, groups can suffer from process loss, arising from lack of coordination. They are also likely to be less efficient in terms of person-hours.
