Brainstorming, negotiating and learning in group decision support systems: an evolutionary approach

Certain tasks undertaken by groups using Group Decision Support Systems (GDSS) can be viewed as search problems. These tasks involve arriving at a solution or decision where the problem is complex enough to warrant the use of computerized decision support tools. Also, the task or situation must require more than one person to adequately address the problem. For these types of GDSS tasks, we propose to model the brainstorming, negotiating and learning processes undertaken by the group as a simple genetic algorithm. The simple genetic algorithm is a generalized search technique that is based on the principles of evolution and natural selection. Simply put, the best points in the search space are more likely to be selected and combined through genetic operators to determine new points. We propose that groups using GDSS to address certain tasks behave like a simple genetic algorithm in the manner in which possible solutions are generated, enhanced and altered in attempting to reach a decision or consensus.