Rationalization logical but improbable excuses

Rationalization (logical but improbable excuses)
Illusion of morality (perceived morally correct)
Stereotypes (of those outside the group)
Self-censorship (avoid voicing contrary opinions)
Mind guards (protecting the groups)
Groups should perform better when
- Members differ in skills
- When division of labour occurs
- Memory for facts is an issue
 Groups will taker riskier decisions than individuals because there is security numbers.
 Depending on your first opinion (either conservative or risky), you’re fist impression will take a shift (more risky or
conservative).
 Group discussion seems to polarize or exaggerate the initial position.
 Group discussion generates ideas and arguments that individual members have not considered before.
 Group members try to present themselves as basically similar to other members but «even better.
IMPROVE DECISION MAKING
1. State the problem in a non-defensive objective manner
2. Supply essential facts and clarify constraints
3. Draw out all groups members; prevent dominant of one person
4. Wait out pauses
5. Ask stimulating questions that move discussion forward.
6. Summarize and clarify at several points to mark progress.
BRAINSTORMING
*We focus on generating ideas rather than evaluation of ideas
Traditional Electronic Nominal group tech. Delphi technique
Increase the number of
creative solution
alternatives to problems by
focusing on idea
generation rather than
evaluation
The use of computer-
mediated technology to
improve traditional
brainstorming practices.
Structured group decision-
making technique in which
ideas are generated
without group interaction
and then systematically
evaluated by the group
Method of pooling a large
number of expert
judgements by using a
series of increasingly refined
questionnaires.
 People generates more
idea working
independently
 In groups there might be
inhibition
 Brainstorming shapes
organizational culture and
helps retain good talent.
 Electronic groups perform
better, tend to produce
more ideas
 Concerned with both
generation and
evaluation of ideas.
 Ideas are generated
nominally (without
interaction)
 Evaluation permits
interaction and discussion
 A disadvantage would be
the time and resources
required
 Waves of
questionnaires
 Provide information to
decision-makers
 Lengthy time frame
involved in the
questionnaire phases
 Avoid the problem of
conformity and
domination that can
occur in interacting
groups

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POWER, POLITICS AND ETHICS
WHAT IS POWER
POWER
• Capacity to influence others who are in a state of dependence.
• It’s not always perceived or exercised.
• The target of power is dependent on the powerholder does not imply that a poor relationship exists between the
two.
•
Power can flow in any direction in an organization
Legitimate
Derive’s from a
person’s position or
job in the
organization.