Some problems are more commonly observed with large meetings than with small meetings. GDSS helps to alleviate some of these problems. In a GDSS environment, there is usually a large room with approximately 40 seats each equipped with a microcomputer. Each microcomputer is linked to the host computer that is operated by the facilitator. The facilitator begins each meeting by first posting the agenda on a large screen in the front of the room.
Participants can enter ideas on their computer for group evaluation.
The host computer sorts the ideas, formulates a list and the participants will then vote or comment on which ideas they like or dislike. During the course of the meeting, GDSS stores, categorizes and prints out all the ideas, comments and vote tallies, so that each of the meeting participants get a summary of the meeting. This saves a tremendous amount of time, because all these operations are done electronically instead of manually, and the time saved will enable participants to spend more time manipulating and expressing their ideas. Consequently there is increased productivity and efficiency. In addition, by using the GDSS no individual dominates the meeting.