Using a group support system to support organisational learning in small and medium sized Enterprises

Martin Read, R. Vince, T. Gear

    Research output: Contribution to conferencePaperpeer-review

    Abstract

    This paper describes a project aimed at introducing a practical approach to Organisational Learning in Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs). The approach is based on the utilisation of a Group Support System in order to enable groups of employees within a SME to explore their feelings with respect to political and emotional aspects of organisational life. The Group Support System involves the use of individual radio handsets which are used to collect information from members of the group, and a personal computer which summarises and presents this information back to the group to support focussed dialogue. A number of group sessions have been conducted in several SMEs and the results are encouraging, demonstrating the ability of this approach to surface largely hidden feelings. Issues raised in this way become the focus of attention for actions and change. The mode of operation of the technology, the design of the group process, and the approach of the facilitator are critical elements to minimising defensive reactions of group members while seeking to maximise group communication and learning.
    Original languageEnglish
    Publication statusPublished - 2004
    Event4th International Conference on Knowledge, Culture and Change - Greenwich, London, United Kingdom
    Duration: 1 Aug 2004 → …

    Conference

    Conference4th International Conference on Knowledge, Culture and Change
    Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
    CityGreenwich, London
    Period1/08/04 → …

    Keywords

    • Organisational Learning
    • Group Support Systems
    • Group Processes

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