Information overload in a data-intensive world

Abstract

This chapter investigates the complex phenomenon of ‘information overload’ that, despite controversies about its existence, is a major problem, the symptoms of which have to be alleviated. Its sources and nature in academia, business environments and in everyday life information seeking, its particular features in the data-intensive world are described, not forgetting about the role of information technology. The possible ways of mitigating information overload are specified, underlining the imperative of being critical against information. Potential approaches and tools, described in this chapter include utilizing appropriate information architecture, applying information literacy, data literacy and other literacies, as well as making use of personal information management.