Limited-Perspective Bias in Technology Projects

Abstract

Limited-perspective bias is a human tendency to overestimate the completeness of what we know and to act on our own (limited) perspective of what is important (Moore & Burke, 2004a). In organizations, each person possesses a view that evolves from what he or she experiences and observes on a daily basis. Given one’s location or role in an organization, these views often differ and can affect one’s perspective on a problem or situation (O’Reilly & Pondy, 1979). Each individual perspective, however, is by and large “valid” in that it represents a distinct cognitive reality within that firm.