What Is Information Overload?

Stress Management

- Thejendra Sreenivas

What is Information Overload? – Information overload is the excess or abundance of information available to people when performing tasks or making decisions. This term was introduced by Bertram Gross, the author of the book “The Managing of Organizations”. He explains that information overload occurs when the quantity of information available on hand exceeds one’s capacity to process it.

Before the Internet

Before the internet, there was hardly any information easily available to make decisions. This was because all information was only in paper form or tapes in archives. People had to refer to old newspapers, visit libraries, consult experts, etc., just to prepare a few pages of information on some topic. Practically everyone had to spend enormous time, money, and effort researching to get what they wanted. This situation was frustrating as it harmed productivity, speed, and overall decision-making.

With the Internet

But today we have tons of information readily available through our computers and smartphones for practically any topic on earth. And the topics cover both pros and cons. While this may seem great it also confuses everyone. For example, if you are a manager wanting to learn some leadership you will find dozens of management experts suggest and justify a tough style of leadership. As you continue your research you will find other qualified experts suggesting and justifying a soft approach to leadership. Now, which one can you choose? And we have similar pros and cons information for investing in shares, careers, and every other topic that we wish to research.

Hazards of Information Overload