ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces the reader to a macro-micro approach to decision processes. It is a systematic yet f lexible approach for characterizing complex geographic decision making, and one way of setting a foundation for understanding the complex character of decision support opportunities. We provide an example of a macro-micro decision strategy as a way of expressing the core issues in the macromicro approach. Once the basic macro-approach has been presented, we elaborate on the micro aspect of understanding complex decision situations in terms of a revised version of Enhanced Adaptive Structuration Theory (EAST)—what we now call EAST2. EAST2 is composed of 25 aspects collected into eight constructs. Relationships between the eight constructs are described in terms of seven premises. We show how the premises can motivate research questions to focus empirical studies about participatory geographic information systems use. We have used EAST2 to guide us in our empirical research investigations involving GIS-supported collaborative decision making, as reported in Chapters 5-7.
