Voting before Discussing: Computer Voting as Social Communication

This paper presents a case study on the use of an alternative method of computer support to that normally used, one that uses voting as a tool for social rather than rational choice. This voting before discussion (VBD) method is indicated in cases where agreement is an important group output, or where interpersonal conflict is creating problems in meetings. Given that participants are warned to avoid “groupthink”, the VBD method seems to increase group unity, reduce inter-personal conflict and speed decision making, while still allowing argument and analysis. The method is based on a three-process integrative theory of group interaction, which proposes that group cohesion arises primarily from normative influence rather than rational information exchange. If this model is correct, the VBD method may be just one of many new possible ways that computer support can be tailored to support group processes according to the nature of the group and the situation.