Information systems as a multi-dimensional construct: The case for groupware

Groupware has been found to impact group processes and outcomes. Albeit the majority of the published research reports enhancements in both, some conflicting results have also been reported. This paper discusses the results reported in the groupware literature in the light of some contextual factors. It explores the impact that some organizational variables might have on the processes and outcomes of groups using groupware. In particular, it hypothesizes that the level of organizational flexibility -defined as a function of the extent to which behavior is formalized and decision making coordinated, mediates the strength of the impact that groupware has on group performance. The paper claims that member participation, depth of analysis, and time to reach decisions increase when groupware is used under conditions of low organizational flexibility. It also claims that groupware helps to reduce dominance by some members, as well as level of consensus, under conditions of low flexibility. Finally, it hypothesizes that increases in task-related communication are greater under conditions of much flexibility.