Share Paper: Do Information Systems Actually Improve Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Performance? -- An Analysis of 3 Different Approaches to the Design of Information Systems

1. Carlos Nakamura, McGill University, Canada
2. Susanne Lajoie, McGill University, Canada
3. Gloria Berdugo, McGill University, Canada

Abstract: We present three different approaches to the research and development (R&D) of information systems: problem solving, decision making, and case-based reasoning. In contrast to case-based reasoning, problem solving and decision making are rule-based approaches. Problem solving emphasizes the sequential process of searching for a solution path. Decision making focuses on the nature of the decision outcome. We present the results of a selection of studies on the effects of these systems on the problem-solving and decision-making performance of their users. Finally, we discuss the limitations of each of the three approaches and their implications for future research.