Decision quality and commitment within a probabilistic environment

A controlled laboratory experiment was conducted using the Brunswik lens model as a base for its design. In this study the effects of varying levels of advice and goals on performance and commitment were investigated. Previous works have not integrated the value of information on performance when given in different amounts or in conjunction with goal-setting propositions within the context of complex decisions made under uncertainty. Commitment functions have remained elusive to researchers as well. Performance was marginally superior when moderate amounts of information were given. Advice and commitment were unrelated. Contrary to the majority of past evidence, as goals became easier, performance marginally improved. Moreover, with easier goals, commitments were less delayed and more accepted. Over time there was increased commitment and improved decision quality. Task complexity emerged as an important explanatory moderating factor between advice and goal influences on decision quality as well as commitment.