Towards a collaborative planning system

This paper begins with an exploration of the problem of combining the elements of group cognition, access to media, and access to computerized analysis tools into a holistic planning process. A way is then discussed in which technology can be used to help combine these activities by incorporating graphical interfaces, associative information structuring, and computer-supported collaborative work into a microcomputer-based collaborative planning system (CPS). Methods for the development of a CPS are proposed and two systems are explored as examples. It is concluded that increased access to relevant information, aided by the implementation of a CPS, can ultimately lead to greater communication among participants in a group planning situation. This will ultimately have a positive effect on the quality of plans and decisions.