What Is Group Decision Making ?
Group decision making is a democratic process of sharing views, ideas and opinions to make a decision. Collective discussion is made to solve the problem. It is a process of identifying the problem, collecting relevant data and information, exploring potential alternatives, evaluating the merits and demerits of each alternative, and selecting the best alternative.
Key Benefits Or Advantages Of Group Decision Making
The main advantages of group decision making technique can be highlighted as follows:
1. Democratic Technique
Group decision making allows the members to share their views and opinions while making decision. So, it is democratic technique of decision making.
2. Adequate Information
Group members have different educational background, skills, abilities and experience. So, more or adequate information can be collected because of specialization.
3. Acceptability
Because of participation and commitment of members, it is more acceptable than individual decision making.
4. Several Alternatives
Because of specialization and diversity of views of different group members, several alternatives can be identified. It helps to select the most appropriate alternative.
5. Legitimacy
It is a democratic process where all members are equally treated and their views and suggestions are considered. Therefore, it is more legitimate than individual decision making technique.
Major Drawbacks/Limitations/Disadvantages Of Group Decision Making
The main disadvantages of group decision making can be highlighted as follows:
1. Lengthy Process
This process consumes more time in discussion because of more members in the group. Ideas and views of each and every member should be listened to make decisions. So, it is a lengthy and time consuming process of decision making.
2. Unsuitable Technique
Prompt decision is not possible in group decision making . So, it is not suitable for emergency situations.
3. Minority Domination
There is a high chance of groupism that may dominate other members of the group.
4. Conflict And Misunderstanding
Because of different background, different skills and different perception of members, there exists a chance of misunderstanding and conflict among the group members.
Pros And Cons Of Group Decision Making In Short
Pros
* It promotes participation and dedication of all members
* Adequate information and ideas can be collected
* It is democratic in nature
* It is more legitimate than individual decision making system
* It promotes creative thinking
* It encourages better communication and collaboration among group members
Cons
* Increases the possibility of conflict and disagreement among members
* It is a lengthy process and not suitable for emergency situation
* It may limit the creativity of an individual
* It lacks accountability
* It may be difficult to reach agreement