Media richness theory argues that different media are more or less appropriate for different tasks. Social information processing theory (SIP) explains a motivation and method guiding such technology adoption. In light of these theories, and the field’s lack of understanding of media effects on group development, this article investigates the development of two important group process factors – cohesion development and process satisfaction – in two different studies of groups supported by electronic meeting systems. Results indicate that initial levels of cohesion and process satisfaction differ depending on the medium (and its inherent richness) and, consistent with SIP, cohesion and process satisfaction increase over time in all types of electronic support, despite relative differences in media richness.

Media effects on the development of cohesion and process satisfaction in computer‐supported workgroups ‐ An analysis of results from two longitudinal studies

This longitudinal pilot study compared the developmental patterns of groups in three types of electronically supported meeting modes: face-to-face, dispersed-synchronous, and dispersed-asynchronous. The modes differed primarily in interactivity, channel capacity, and synchronicity. Comparisons were made along several behavioral and socio-technical dimensions which influence the group development process. Face-to-face groups tended to exhibit more effective leadership and coordination competence over time as compared to the distributed groups. However, along several other group process dimensions such as cohesiveness and equality of participation, dispersed groups did not differ from their face-to-face counterparts. Moreover, groups in all three modes performed equally well in terms of the quality of outputs. These results suggest that electronically distributed work groups—with adequate time and training—can become cohesive and perform effectively in the long run.

Developmental differences between distributed and face-to-face groups in electronically supported meeting environments: An exploratory investigation

Media richness theory argues that different media are more or less appropriate for different tasks. Adaptive structuration theory (AST) implies that technology users may creatively adapt technological structures to mitigate differences in richness. Social Information Processing theory (SIP) suggests a motivation and method guiding such technology adoption. In light of these theories, this paper investigates the development of two important group process factors-cohesion development and process satisfaction--in two different studies of groups supported by EMS. Consistent with AST and SIP, results indicate that cohesion and process satisfaction increase over time in all types of electronic support, despite relative differences in richness.

/pdf/a-longitudinal-analysis-of-the-effects-of-media-richness-on-48ukjm4gr6.pdf

A longitudinal analysis of the effects of media richness on cohesion development and process satisfaction in computer-supported workgroups

https://spectrum.library.concordia.ca/7748/1/Carillo_%26_Okoli_2011_distro.pdf

Generating quality open content: A functional group perspective based on the time, interaction, and performance theory

The emerging collaborative organizational model provides a context for the use of new methods for facilitating interaction. At the same time, technology is evolving to support meetings among distributed participants. Few studies have examined the effect of these new electronic meeting systems (EMS) on distributed workteams over time. Adaptive structuration theory (AST) suggests that, when groups encounter environmental difficulties, they may creatively adapt some structures to mitigate the limitations. This study investigated the development of cohesiveness, conflict management, and process satisfaction over four sessions among face-to-face, distributed-synchronous and distributed-asynchronous groups supported by an EMS. Results indicate that, despite structural impediments inherent in distributed interaction, groups can develop along these relational dimensions. These findings are consistent with AST. However, research needs to examine further the nature of structuration in technologically supported groups. >

/pdf/evolution-of-relational-factors-over-time-a-study-of-55jtvp4xbg.pdf

Evolution of relational factors over time: a study of distributed and nondistributed meetings

Electronic communication channels provide the infrastructure to support distributed business teams. The authors present a new model on the effectiveness of teams using electronic communication. Based both on prior GDSS research and on a strong referent discipline, small group communication, model constructs stem largely from the research program and research instrument developed by C. Larson and F. LaFasto (1989). Larson and LaFasto developed a theory-based instrument to assess team effectiveness. The model supported by an extended literature review, contains the eight team-effectiveness dimensions. The dimensions include: clear and elevating goal, results-driven structure, competent team members, collaborative climate, unified commitment, standards of excellence, external support and recognition and principled leadership. Also reported is a summary of a quantitative study comparing team effectiveness of distributed teams using electronic communication to one-site teams. >

J.Y. Smith

Papers

Effectiveness measures for distributed teams using electronic meeting technology: the Larson/LaFasto instrument