Investigating managerial practices for data and information overload in decision making

Abstract

Much research has been done on the effects of data and information overload on the psychological, physical and emotional state of managers. However, there appears to be less understanding of how data and information overload affect decision making. In a review study conducted in 2004, Eppler and Mengis reported this for articles that ranged from the year 1963 to the year 2000. Given the changes associated with technological progress and its effect on data and information overload, this study contributes to an improved understanding of practices and their impact on decision-making. This study confirmed previous findings that managers suffer from information overload; however, it further shows that managers, across various levels, suffered not only from information overload but more so from data overload. Once the concepts were explained to them, managers were able to expand their personal strategies for each. This study benefits managers and other decision makers as it assists them in identifying alternative strategies that aid in managing data and information overload and, consequently, assists in effective decision making.