Managing digital information on a computer

• Information overload is not only about too much data but also about the different types of it. All non-essential information adds to the clutter and ends up as – garbage in…garbage out.
• Information overload decreases efficiency as individuals and organizations waste time managing it.
• Information duplication is cheap but wastes resources. For instance, digital information is often printed out. Information on paper is also digitized. These have a cost.
• Information sharing has become easier. Think social networks and think loss of privacy as everyone is available 24 x 7.
• Information is not only about receiving, but also about sending it out. For example, emails are meant to be replied to. Email overload is a real stress factor.
• Attempting to manage information (or related tasks) has given rise to the multi-tasking trend. The jury is still out on whether multi-tasking is ultimately counter-productive or not.
• Ultimately, too much information makes it difficult to decide quickly and effectively. For example, try reading a few reviews when you are planning to buy a mobile phone next time.