Managing ICT in business : best practices and advice

How to properly manage the abundance of ICT information in business

We are increasingly surrounded by information and communication technologies. As a result, it can become difficult to manage the abundance of information that may overwhelm an employee during a working day. This can significantly increase their workload by affecting cognitive and attentional capacities, and it may also impact their well-being by raising stress and anxiety levels.

The impacts of information overload on ICT in companies

Although greatly facilitating communication, the emergence of ICTs has also significantly increased work pace and intensity, notably through a rise in the number of overtime hours worked.

Indeed, ICTs have increased both internal and external demands that employees are expected to meet as quickly as possible. They have also led to work entering the private sphere of life.

Furthermore, the abundance of information can distract employees, leading to interruptions and fragmented tasks. They may then find themselves overwhelmed and lost in their workload. This also contributes to cognitive overload, which can negatively affect both employees’ mental health and their productivity.

In addition, ICTs can also negatively affect interpersonal relationships and work collectives. Finally, they may reinforce the feeling of constant monitoring of activity, adding an extra layer of stress for employees.

Better manage ICT in the company

The misuse of ICTs has adverse effects on the worker. It is therefore important to learn how to manage and use them properly.

A first solution would be to limit the number of communication channels in order to optimize their use. The multitude of information coming from various and multiple channels represents an additional task for employees, thereby increasing their workload.

Secondly, it is essential to train employees in the use of new information and communication technologies. Indeed, improper use, as well as a lack of familiarity with these tools, can lead to clear cognitive overload, negatively affecting employees’ well-being.

Finally, it can also be useful to train employees in effective email management and handling. This can improve the organization of their work, thereby making task completion easier and more efficient.