Multi-Tasking ?...Think again!

Wikipedia defines Multitasking as following “In Computing, multitasking is a method where multiple tasks, also known as processes, are performed during the same period of time. In the case of a computer with a single CPU, only one task is said to be running at any point in time, meaning that the CPU is actively executing instructions for that task” .

I guess the same holds true for human beings as well. An individual can actually perform only one task effectively at a given instant of time as long as we agree that we all have a single brain! In my opinion, Multitasking in human beings actually reduces effectiveness especially in the Work environment, where more and more people wear their badge of honor in their ability to Multi-task.

 The reason can be learnt again from the Computing world. As Multitasking happens, transition from one task to the next happens through context switch. For example, say you are busy typing an email when a colleague drops by your desk...If you start a conversation with him before completing the email, a Context switch happened from email to the conversation. It happens again, when you get back to the email, after the conversation..

  Computers are so great with context switching that they provide us the illusion of working in parallel on Multiple tasks at the same time. Unfortunately with the human beings, Context switching is an issue. In the example above, the person would have to regroup his thoughts on the email and in that process would have lost some efficiency and may even forget to type an important point. This is because our brain tries to move from one task to another task. In his book titled, “The Myth of Multitasking”, Dave Crenshaw states that 28 minutes of each work hour of an employee is lost due to switching costs

 While I rant about the demerits of Multi-tasking, I do agree that it is here to stay in the wired world we live in .Fortunately, I think there is a solution which again comes from the computing world…Timesharing….to use a less technical term… Focus. Timesharing refers to the Central Processing Unit of Computer dedicating “a slice or block” of time to a particular task before moving on to the next. So, even when you are required to multi-task, give yourself the liberty of dedicating enough time on the particular task before moving on to the next. The quantum of time slice may vary from person to person…but for intensive tasks, I would recommend at least half-an-hour of distraction free time. David Allen, the productivity guru,of “Getting Things Done” concept calls this as “Vertical Thinking”.So,think about a problem/task deeply enough before moving on to the next task…  

In summary, its all down to skill of Focus…More specifically, Attention span is the micro-skill that we should seek to develop. Attention span can be measured easily : Uninterrupted time spent on the current task on hand...Start measuring it and you will be in for a surprise…practice it even if its just 5 minutes. The next time a colleague comes calling at your desk when you are typing an important email, ask him if he can wait for some time until you complete the email or else you would want to get back to him!