Today I read a very interesting article that was powerful enough to knock me out of
my blogging slumber. It is essentially a summary of a paper that was recently published
at the International Conference on Information
Systems. It can be found at the following URL (and was slashdotted
here):

http://computerworld.com/action/article.do?command=viewArticleBasic&taxonomyId=14&articleId=281734&intsrc=hm_topic

So why was this article particularly interesting to myself? Well for starters it was
based on a study of executive recruiters, who are my current employers. It was also
particularly interesting as the theories presented back up the beliefs at the
foundation of my new CRM system (my thesis). The article provides empirical
evidence that multi-taskers are more productive due to their increased ability to
handle parallel tasks. This is one of the key features of the CRM package, however
it is also the thing that is taking the longest time to train staff to use.

I am even noticing a difference between Generation X and Y staff in this area. As
this related
article states; Generation
X may have introduced multitasking to the work place, but Generation Y has perfected
it. I am certainly finding that to be the case. This is also extremely important for
the retention of staff. As multi-tasking becomes more embraced by the Generations,
they begin to expect it to be supported and become frustrated quickly if it is not
available. Some of my other
favourite articles on Gen Y employees reinforce this message. Empower your
staff with flexible, multi-tasking IT tools and they will be highly productive and
highly profitable.