Investigating managerial practices for data and information overload in decision making

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