Estimating the Difference Between Group Versus Individual Performance on Problem-Solving Tasks

Abstract

An extensive amount of research has focused on the relative performance of groups versus individuals in problem-solving situations. The results of this research have been inconsistent. To some extent these inconsistent findings can be attributed to differences in the variables used to represent individual and group output and the methods employed to compare their performance. This research uses data from 61 groups (347 individuals) who completed a planning simulation to review, compare, and contrast alternative strategies (or "scoring algorithms") for estimating the differences between group versus individual performance on problem-solving tasks. Although the alternative strategies produced different estimates of the amount of gain that can be attributed to group interaction, they generally supported the conclusion that groups outperform their individual members. These results are discussed in terms of research on group performance, the use of simulations for training, and the role of groups in organizational problem solving and task performance.