Information processing theory: A descriptive framework for the study and design of decision support technology

This dissertation examines the impact and application of information processing theory and principles within the field of Management Information Science (MIS). An information processing paradigm was used to investigate one of the most important concepts in the field of MIS-managerial decision making and the appropriate design of decision support technology (DST). This dissertation investigates the characteristic features of decision-maker's: cognitive styles, heuristic biases, intellectual abilities, personality characteristics, and the distinctive ways in which they differ and complement each other.;Traditional theories and definitions of decision support design have been based on decision style conceptualizations that view decision-makers as functioning on consistent patterns of organizing and processing information across diverse conditions. Consequently, knowledge of consistent patterns of cognitive processing factors has been sought in an effort to design information systems to more appropriately aid decision-makers with semi-structured decision tasks.;The results of this study indicate that the sexes, and individuals in different occupations demonstrate different, but consistent patterns of information processing. Furthermore, these consistent patterns of information processing can be explained and predicted through the use of a hierarchical control model of cognitive processing. These consistent patterns of information processing and hierarchical control mechanisms are summarized and explained utilizing the concept of a stereotype.;Collectively, the results: (a) provide a unifying theoretical and methodological framework to investigate DST issues within the MIS discipline which are based on information processing constructs and principles; and (b) provide a descriptive process model of managerial judgment and decision making for deriving a systematic principle driven approach to the design of decision support technology (MIS, DSS, Group DSS).;Implications of this research are discussed in terms of five rubrics which impact both researchers and practitioners within the MIS discipline: (1) expanding MIS's knowledge of individual decision making and problem solving difficulties; (2) expanding MIS's knowledge of appropriate cognitive support in decision making; (3) expanding MIS's knowledge of designing appropriate decision support technology; (4) expanding MIS's knowledge of interactive methods with computer systems; and (5) expanding MIS's knowledge of tuning the stylistic characteristics of information system environments to facilitate more effective managerial decision making.