Measuring Information Overload Within the Private University System
George Kwabla Sena Akorfu
Journal of Information & Systems Management, Vol. 2, No. 4, 2012.
DOI: 
Link: http://www.dline.info/jism/fulltext/v2n4/2.pdf
Abstract:
This paper focuses on measuring information overload within the private university system since management of private universities depends mainly on Heads of Departments (HODs) unlike public universities where there are clear defined structures for proper management of various departments. The method uses time as a measurement unit and describes five information load situations that may be encountered by Heads of Departments. These situations are identified in an information load matrix (ILM) representing key principals in private universities and distinct stages of a semester. Data for the ILM was gathered using a questionnaire, which was sent to one hundred and fifty (150) Heads of Departments of private universities. A weight scale is introduced for each situation in order to calculate information load points (ILP). A graphical representation of the ILP suggests that there are three distinct information load areas in a semester. Area 1 is an information overload free area. In area 2, information overload is normally at an acceptable level, but sometimes the circumstances in this area can easily rise to area 3, where information overload is at its highest. The method sets a numeric norm on identifying the degree of information overload. Some implications of the results and potential applications of the method are discussed, and suggestions, based on time management principles, for managing information overload are made.