In small organizations decisions are often made by individuals especially at lower managerial level. There may be conflicting objectives even for a sole decision maker. A decision maker needs data and detailed analysis and understanding of the data in order to make a good decision. For example, in an investment decision an individual investor may consider the rate of return on the investment, liquidity and safety as objectives. Finally decisions may be fully automated.
Most major decisions in medium sized and large organizations are made by groups. Obviously there are often conflicting objectives in a group decision making setting. Group can be of variable size and may include people from different departments or from different organizations.
Collaborating individuals may have different cognitive styles, personality types and decisions style. Some clash whereas others are mutually enhancing. Therefore the process of decision making by a group can be very complicated. Computerized support system can greatly enhance group decision making.