Payoff selectivity drives collective intelligence during dynamic resource tracking in humans.

Payoff visibility enhances group performance in dynamic resource tracking, with groups outperforming individuals when payoff information is available.

• Why it matters: Understanding how humans integrate personal and social cues in realistic environments is crucial for explaining collective intelligence and preventing maladaptive behaviors.
• What they did: The study involved an online 3D immersive experiment with 621 participants, either alone or in groups of five, tracking a mobile resource with varying social information and speeds.
• The result: Payoff visibility prompted adaptive visual recalibration and selective response to social cues, enabling groups to dynamically optimize decision-making and unlock their collective potential.