a task or project that a group can complete by averaging individual members’ solutions or recommendations. Groups are more likely to outperform individuals on such tasks when (a) the members are equally proficient at the task and (b) the members do not share common biases that produce systematic tendencies toward overestimation or underestimation. Compare additive task; conjunctive task; disjunctive task. See also wisdom of crowds.
1. a person or object that substitutes for the role of an individual who has a significant position in a family or group. See father surrogate; mother surrogate.
2. more generally, any person or entity that substitutes for another.