Group Decision Making

In organisations most of important decisions require consultation by a group. Group decision making is needed because some decisions require expert opinion of many managers, for example launching new product. In such a case, managers from production, marketing, finance and other departments will be involved. Similarly, in implementation of decision a number of people may be involved. 

Advantages of Group Decision Making 

1. In group decision making possibility for acceptance and implementation of decision is greater as compared to decision making by individual. By participating members develop a sense of belongingness and accountability for decision which they take. 
2. In general group can generate more ideas, analyse the issue from different angles and evaluate the alternatives in wider perspective. 
3. Group participation may lead to creativity in decision making. 
4. Group decision making is more useful in situation of uncertainty and risk. 
5. Group has greater capacity to take risk as compared to individual. 

Disadvantages of Croup Decision Making 

1. Generally it is seen that group takes more time in making decisions. 
2. Quality of decision? may be affected because of interpersonal problems. 
3. Responsibility for decision making cannot be fixed on individual members. In case of delay or failure there is tendency to blame others. 
4. Sometimes one or two members can dominate group decisions. Therefore, group decision may not reflect thinking of the group members.