Student project teams might also have their own workspaces, as could faculty committees or research teams who find it difficult to meet face to face. Databases can be customized to admit or restrict specific users as appropriate. Another type of groupware is designed specifically to facilitate group meetings. Some researchers have estimated that middle managers spend 35 percent of their work week in meetings and that top managers spend 50-80 percent of their time in meetings. Many such meetings are characterized by unclear goals, unequal participation, and difficulty reaching consensus.
Participants can provide their input simultaneously and anonymously via computer.
This has been shown to result in greater participation and more complete consideration of topics. The display of incoming inputs on the public screen during brainstorming also tends to stimulate a larger number of ideas. Each computer-based activity is followed by facilitated discussion. Information Technology Used in Supply Chain Management Businesses recognize the growing importance of communicating and forming alliances with customers and suppliers so they can adapt quickly to the ever-changing environment. Information technology is increasingly being used strategically for supply chain management which refers to the integration of supplier, distributor, and customer logistics requirements into one cohesive process.