The Effects of Interruptions, Task Complexity, and Information Presentation on Computer-Supported Decision-Making Performance

Cheri Speier, Iris Vessey, Joseph S. Valacich

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

322 Scopus citations

Abstract

Interruptions are a frequent occurrence in the work life of most decision makers. This paper investigated the influence of interruptions on different types of decision-making tasks and the ability of information presentation formats, an aspect of information systems design, to alleviate them. Results from the experimental study indicate that interruptions facilitate performance on simple tasks, while inhibiting performance on more complex tasks. Interruptions also influenced the relationship between information presentation format and the type of task performed: spatial presentation formats were able to mitigate tghe effects of interruptions while symbolic formats were not. The paper presents a broad conceptualization of interruptions and interprets the ramifications of the experimental findings within this conceptualization to develop a program for future research.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)771-797
Number of pages27
JournalDecision Sciences
Volume34
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 2003

Keywords

  • Decision Making
  • Information Presentation Formats
  • Interruptions

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Business, Management and Accounting(all)
  • Strategy and Management
  • Information Systems and Management
  • Management of Technology and Innovation

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'The Effects of Interruptions, Task Complexity, and Information Presentation on Computer-Supported Decision-Making Performance'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this