The article discusses the development and impact of Electronic Meeting Systems (EMS) in enhancing group work effectiveness. Groups, which are essential for decision-making in organizations, often face challenges such as lack of focus, participation, and productive outcomes. EMS aims to address these issues by leveraging information technology to improve group dynamics and efficiency. The University of Arizona's research program, which includes both developmental and empirical studies, has developed tools like GroupSystems to support various group activities, including idea generation, decision-making, and strategic planning. These tools provide process support, structure, and task support, enabling simultaneous participation, reducing social loafing, and enhancing information sharing. The article also explores the theoretical foundations of EMS, the design of GroupSystems, and its practical applications in different organizational settings. Empirical research has shown that EMS can improve effectiveness, efficiency, and satisfaction, but the impact varies depending on group characteristics, task nature, and context. Anonymity, for example, can reduce evaluation apprehension and conformance pressure, leading to more open discussions, but it may also lead to deindividuation and negative behaviors. Overall, EMS offers a promising approach to enhance group work, but its effectiveness depends on careful consideration of the specific context and group dynamics.The article discusses the development and impact of Electronic Meeting Systems (EMS) in enhancing group work effectiveness. Groups, which are essential for decision-making in organizations, often face challenges such as lack of focus, participation, and productive outcomes. EMS aims to address these issues by leveraging information technology to improve group dynamics and efficiency. The University of Arizona's research program, which includes both developmental and empirical studies, has developed tools like GroupSystems to support various group activities, including idea generation, decision-making, and strategic planning. These tools provide process support, structure, and task support, enabling simultaneous participation, reducing social loafing, and enhancing information sharing. The article also explores the theoretical foundations of EMS, the design of GroupSystems, and its practical applications in different organizational settings. Empirical research has shown that EMS can improve effectiveness, efficiency, and satisfaction, but the impact varies depending on group characteristics, task nature, and context. Anonymity, for example, can reduce evaluation apprehension and conformance pressure, leading to more open discussions, but it may also lead to deindividuation and negative behaviors. Overall, EMS offers a promising approach to enhance group work, but its effectiveness depends on careful consideration of the specific context and group dynamics.