MULTI-TASKING OR TASK-SWITCHING IMPACT ON WORK FLOW

MULTI-TASKING OR TASK-SWITCHING IMPACT ON WORK FLOW

    By: Agboola Kabirat Jadesola

Oftentimes, I’ve heard people say I am good at multi-tasking, task switching and all. I silently disagree and wonder if anyone can be so good at these two concepts.

Multi-tasking and task switching is mostly used interchangeably. While multitasking means performing two or more different tasks at the same pace and time, task switching implies performing two or more tasks by switching attention from one to the other.

Yes, some interruption might be unavoidable, yet, the practice of multi-tasking and task switching decreases information processing in the brain, increases cognitive overload, leading to less productivity and waste of time.

Task switching and multitasking aren’t productivity boosters as you thought they were. They decrease mental strength and the output of what we are working on.

Our brain works better when we focus on a single task.

 Focusing on a single task helps to increase productivity, reduce time waste, enhance concentration and decrease mental fatigue.

Also Read: https://www.britannica.com/technology/multitasking

SIMPLE TECHNIQUES FOR YOU.

Use pomodoro techniques: this is when you work on a task without interruption for 25 minutes, then take a break for 5 minutes in order to fight distractions and promote work efficiency.

Time blocking: this is when you allocate a time slot for a specific task throughout the day.

Prioritising your task from the most important to the least important to minimize distraction and task switching.

ORGANISATIONAL ROLE IN REDUCING TASK SWITCHING.

The role of any Organisations is to educate their employees on the term multitasking and task switching, the importance of focusing on a single task at a time, and how to boost productivity without task switching.

Also Read: https://dnewsinfo.com/effective-communication-the-key-to-unlocking-organisational-goodwill/

While the terms multi-taking and task switching have been trending in the workforce for years, it has been proven to be time wasting and less productive. Every task switcher directly or indirectly pays for cognitive cost. Why not focus on getting the task done perfectly without stress?