Examining the Influence of Cognitive Style on the Use of a Decision Support Tool for Structured and Unstructured Tasks

Decision makers are faced with an ever-growing collection of information, and an ever-growing level of complexity with respect to the types of decisions being made. Appropriately designed computerized decision support tools are needed to support the decision maker in the various tasks that they must undertake in evaluating the information, arriving at a decision, and solving the problem. However, a dilemma arises if the decision maker or problem solver does not have an appropriate tool to support them. This research examines the appropriateness of a common, generic decision support tool, in consideration of the types of tasks, structured and unstructured, decision makers undertake and, in particular, the preferred cognitive style and approach of the individual decision maker. Interesting patterns and significant findings indicate that varying decision or problem solving cognitive styles influence the use made of a decision tool, and subsequently the individual’s performance in completing their tasks.