Diane L. Ferry

Managerial use of video conferencing

Abstract The use of video conferencing systems (VCS) for meetings that transcend geographical dispersion in the workplace has increased significantlu in recent years. But, where do video conferencing systems fit in relation to traditional communication media used in the workplace? Research suggests that VCS is somewhere between the telephone and face-to-face meetings in terms of media richness. Guidelines on how to use this technology more efficiently and effectively focus on the type of meeting, the emotional content of the situation, the number of sites and individuals included and preparation for the meeting itself. Appropriate use of VCS promises to provide great benefits in productivity.

Computer supported cooperative work tools and media richness: an integration of the literature

An evaluation is given of the successes and failures of computer supported cooperative work tools in terms of a behavioral theory which suggests that information processing occurs during group work to: reduce uncertainty and resolve equivocality. Matching the situation with the appropriate tool is important to implementation success. If uncertainty is the issue, then tools which transmit relatively large amounts of neutral information, such as electronic messaging systems are predicted to be most useful. If equivocality is the issue, then those tools which are media rich should be most helpful. Results in terms of how systems are actually used are surprising.<<ETX>>

Dynamic Administration: The Collected Works of Mary Parker Follett

The article reviews the book “Dynamic Administration: The Collected Papers of Mary Parker Follett,” edited by Henry C. Metcalf and L. Urwick.

Learning about and from Group Support Systems

A framework for using Group Support Systems (GSS) to aid learning about group problem-solving processes is presented. The authors describe a typical group problem-solving process and GSS. A framework for matching GSS tools to stages of the group problem-solving process is presented. The authors then detail how two simulations were developed for use with GSS. The simulations were used to provide students with experience in using GSS and in developing an agenda for group problem solving. Evidence of effectiveness of the simulations is presented. The authors conclude with considerations for developing simulations for presenting GSS and group problem-solving processes.

Decision making in a low probability, high risk setting: The case of computer viruses

Computer viruses pose a real threat to businesses in terms of their potential for wreaking havoc with one of a companys most valuable resources, its information. The responses of firms to this threat have varied widely from doing almost nothing to greatly enhancing their computer security measures. Most people view the probability of a computer virus attack as very low; however, many also recognize that the risk is very high. This study explores how managers make decisions regarding how to protect the companys information resource from a computer virus attack. A behavioral model of decision making is presented and tested through an empirical study of managers. Four major findings include (1) awareness of the computer virus problem in general is most influenced by experience with a computer virus attack (either in ones company or in a friends firm) and by attendance at a conference concerning computer viruses; (2) awareness of protective options varies according to position of the individual within the firm; (3) awareness of curative measures that have been implemented within the firm is relatively low for managers; and (4) a major influence on the decision to take protective action comes from colleagues, supervisors and friends. Policy implications are discussed regarding what steps should be taken based on these results to help businesses protect themselves from the extensive damage that could result from a computer virus attack.