Tool Support for GSS Session Design

Research has demonstrated the added value of Group Support Systems (GSS) when they are applied under the right circumstances. However, the design of a GSS session remains a complex task and is vital for successful intervention using the technology. GSS supported sessions are dynamic and mostly unpredictable events, and preparation is therefore difficult. This paper presents a suite to support novice facilitators in the design of GSS sessions. The suite contains several tools and supports not only the design process of a GSS session but also the learning process of a novice facilitator during the preparation. The paper will explain the theoretical basis of the suite, the tools within the suite and a first evaluation of the added value of this suite for novice facilitators.