Summarize the pros and cons of involving groups in the decision-making process. There are both pros and cons to involving groups in the decision-making process. Although research shows that groups typically outperform the average individual, there are five important issues to consider when using groups to make decisions.

(a) Groups are less efficient than individuals.

(b) A group’s overconfidence can fuel groupthink.

(c) Decision quality is negatively related to group size.

(d) Groups are more accurate when they know a great deal about the issues at hand and when the leader possesses the ability to effectively evaluate the group members’ opinions and judgments.

(e) The composition of a group affects its decision-making processes and performance.

In the final analysis, managers are encouraged to use a contingency approach when determining whether to include others in the decision-making process. P=879