Group decisions in organizations: observed issues and techniques used in the decision-making process stages

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5585/2025.28084

Keywords:

decision-making process, group problems, group techniques, decision quality

Abstract

Study Objective: This study aims to address a gap in the literature on group decision-making by examining how well-known group problems—such as groupthink, hidden profile, and polarization—impact decision quality. Additionally, it investigates which techniques are most suitable for different stages of the decision-making process.

Methodology/Approach: A review of both descriptive and prescriptive literature on group problems, group techniques, and decision quality was conducted. Complementarily, interviews were carried out with facilitators involved in group decision-making processes within organizations. This dual approach enabled the identification of group problems and the techniques applied at each stage of decision-making, both in theory and practice.

Originality/Relevance: This study integrates theoretical insights with real-world organizational practices, revealing misalignments between prescribed decision-making techniques and those actually used in organizations. It contributes to the understanding of how different group dynamics affect decision quality and offers practical guidance for decision-makers.

Main Results: Findings indicate that specific group problems tend to emerge at different stages of the decision-making process, and certain techniques can effectively mitigate their impact. The study presents a theoretical model to assist decision-makers and facilitators in enhancing decision quality.

Theoretical/Methodological Contributions: By mapping group problems and techniques across decision-making stages, this study bridges theoretical prescriptions and organizational practices, providing a structured framework for improving group decision-making effectiveness.

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Author Biographies

Artur Barretti Mascarenhas, Faculdade de Economia, Administração, Contabilidade e Atuária - Universidade de São Paulo - FEA-USP, São Paulo, Brasil

PhD Candidate in Business Administration at FEA-USP, conducting research in Marketing and Consumer Psychology. Holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration from FEA-USP, with research focused on group decision-making. Graduated in Economics from the School of Economics, Business, and Accounting at USP (2001) and completed a postgraduate degree in Behavioral Economics at ESPM (Escola Superior de Propaganda e Marketing). Has experience in the field of Economics, with an emphasis on Behavioral Economics, Decision-Making Processes, and Group Decision-Making.

Abraham Sin Oih Yu, Faculdade de Economia, Administração, Contabilidade e Atuária - Universidade de São Paulo - FEA-USP, São Paulo, Brasil

Holds a Bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the Instituto Tecnológico de Aeronáutica (1970), a Master of Science and a PhD in Philosophy from Stanford University (1983), and a Livre-Docência (Habilitation) in Business Administration from the University of São Paulo (2004). Former Associate Professor at the University of São Paulo (until 2022), currently a Senior Professor and Researcher at the Instituto de Pesquisas Tecnológicas do Estado de São Paulo (Institute for Technological Research of the State of São Paulo), in the Operations Directorate. Has experience in the field of Business Administration, with an emphasis on Business Management, focusing primarily on the following topics: technological obsolescence, technological innovation, decision analysis, and science and technology.

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Published

30.06.2025

How to Cite

Mascarenhas, A. B., & Sin Oih Yu, A. (2025). Group decisions in organizations: observed issues and techniques used in the decision-making process stages. Revista Ibero-Americana De Estratégia, 24(3), e28084. https://doi.org/10.5585/2025.28084
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