Apparently, not much. Cognitive science researchers at the University of Queensland say that the human mind can only keep track of four variables when trying to solve a problem. I’m not sure, but I think explains why I can’t knit in front of the T.V. and read my knowledge management homework at the same time.
(Via the fine folks at Boing Boing)
I help folks with strategic planning and associated metrics. They always want to measure everything; one client recently came back with 98 things for senior leaders to regularly review. That’s at least better than the client a few years ago that had more than 450 for senior leaders to review.
I teach folks they should stay with 8 to 12. Under the “less is more” philosophy, perhaps I should start telling folks “no more than four.” ;-)
And, this is why I can’t handle my Bloglines subscription: just too damn much. Help!