Affected but not involved: Two-scenario based investigation of individuals’ attitude towards decision support systems based on the example of the video assistant referee

ABSTRACT To fully realize the benefits of Decision Support Systems (DSS), it is important to investigate factors influencing individuals who are affected by the DSS’ decision but are not involved in decision-making. An example of such DSS is the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in professional football. Drawing on transparency and justice research, we examined the role of transparency, procedural justice, and social influence on individuals’ attitudes towards the VAR. A quantitative vignette-based approach (N = 824) using two scenarios (fans watching from home/in stadiums) was chosen. Results indicate that all variables are higher in the home setting. Structural equation modelling revealed that transparency, procedural justice, and social influence significantly impact individual’s attitude towards the VAR. Multigroup analyses showed that the effect size of one transparency dimension is significantly stronger at home, while social influence is stronger in stadiums. To further interpret the findings, we conducted twelve semi-structured interviews among football fans.