Compared to traditional meetings, electronically mediated meetings are more efficient and effective in accomplishing group goals and objectives. Saves money Proposals can be reviewed and reworked immediately thus producing higher quality results. Higher quality results gained in a shorter period of time translate into cost savings. Focuses on solutions Because input is anonymous, groups focus on the content of ideas and not their source. Rank and personality differences are largely eliminated.
Meetings are more open and participants are less inhibited.
After a session, the system can produce a hardcopy record of the entire meeting proceedings. Ease of use Software tools used during a meeting can be mastered by first time users in a matter of minutes and a trained facilitator is on hand to assist participants throughout the entire process. Dispersed access Team members who are unable to attend these meetings can join the session remotely through dial-in lines that can be accessed via modem connections. The EMR is an innovative management tool for the '90s and can assist with a variety of organizational activities involving groups, teams or committees. The EMR uses networked IBM-compatible personal computers and specially developed group decision support software known as groupware .