How Does Time Batching Improve Workforce Productivity?
Table of contents
Technology has been one of the biggest enablers of modern times. However, on the flip side, it is also one of the main reasons for lower workforce productivity. Even the best intentions can fail under the onslaught of emails, calls, meeting invites, and the bottomless social media pit. The result is a loss of time and productivity. Luckily, there is a solution at hand – Time Batching. Not only can this help you focus better, but it can also increase your productivity.
Let’s jump straight in, without wasting more time and learn more about this wonderful strategy.
What Is Time Batching?
In simple terms, time batching, or task batching as it is also called, is a productivity strategy that groups similar tasks to be completed in a single time. The idea behind this approach is to avoid context switching, which is jumping between tasks and not focusing on a particular one for long.
The concept emerged from the computer operating system, running multiple processes simultaneously. And that’s what we do with our brain when we toggle between tasks. For all its abilities, the brain isn’t a machine. And it takes time and effort to even attempt to achieve this.
Multitasking Is a Myth
The human brain performs at its best when focussing on one thing at a time. We have a limited amount of mental capacity and attention. And when we try to split that time between tasks, we effectively don’t get either one done. According to this New Yorker article, 98% of people reported working better when they focused on one job instead of multitasking.
Did you know that it can take an average of 23 minutes to focus back in after a distraction? With task batching, we save the brain from this ‘switching tax’.
Time batching helps us become more productive by harnessing our focus on a specific type of task. By splitting work in batches and not thinking about or working on any other task that’s not in that group you get more done because your brain is not spending time and energy to switch between tasks.
Tasks can be divided into two types:
1. Shallow tasks: These require lower levels of focus and energy, perfect for short bursts of work
2. Deep tasks: These are the ones that call for high levels of productive energy, minimal distraction, and greater focus for longer periods.
What Are The Benefits Of Time Batching?
- Encourages deep work and focus: Time batching allows you to focus only on the task that is ahead of you. This state of deep work is where you can learn challenging things and produce quality work quickly.
- Decreases burnout: Constantly switching between tasks doesn’t get much work done and it also greatly increases the chance of burnout. By separating tasks into manageable blocks, you can see how much work is done, making you feel accomplished.
- Saves time: Do you find yourself struggling at the end of the day with unfinished tasks? Creating time blocks builds a sense of urgency and you are more likely to finish off challenging tasks earlier, leaving you with more free time eventually.
Top 5 Tips for Task Batching
1. Split tasks by function or objective: After you identify similar tasks, assign each set to a specific block of time. For example, you decide to check emails between 9:00-10:00 a.m. For the rest of the day, you leave your emails aside.
2. Use a calendar or scheduling tool: Using a calendar to input your batched tasks gives you a visual representation of how your time is split at work. Keep in mind previously planned meetings or calls and schedule those days accordingly.
3. Set reminders or alerts: You might need to rely on alerts or reminders initially to stay on track with these blocks of time. As you settle into the routine, you might not need them.
4. Activate Do Not Disturb mode: When your block of time begins, turn on the Do Not Disturb mode on your devices and close all open tabs to prevent distractions. If you work in an office, close the door to your workspace or use headphones.
5. Share plans: If you work with a team or in a physical office, let the others know about your experiment with time batching so they know you’re trying to eliminate distractions. If you choose to wear headphones or close your office door, that’s a sign that you’re in the middle of work and they need to wait.
Also Read: How to Boost Employee Productivity and the Best Way to Improve It
Time batching: Make Each Day Productive
Do you struggle with meeting deadlines or find yourself losing focus to work-related or other distractions? Even the smallest distraction can destroy your schedule and throw your work off the rails. You need to consider time batching.
With the right amount of rigidity and self-control, you might find yourself finishing work faster than before and meeting deadlines well in time.
Frequently Asked Question
Q1. Is Task Batching the Same as Time Blocking?
While task batching and time blocking seem similar, there are some differences between them.
- In task batching, you group similar tasks into one designated period. For instance, you can decide to check your emails in a batch instead of as and when they come in.
- Time blocking or time batching requires putting aside specific blocks of time in your day to focus on specific tasks. Like the earlier email example, you can block off one hour every day only for answering emails.
Q2. Who Can Use Time Batching?
You can apply time batching in your work, if:
- It’s difficult to focus on a single task
- Distractions come in the way of making progress
- There are too many interruptions at work
- Your job requires you to repeat similar tasks regularly
Q3. Who Cannot Benefit from Time Batching?
Time batching is not suitable for individuals who:
- Perform variable tasks that are often quite different from each other
- Don’t require deep focus or uninterrupted periods of work
- Find it easy to get back on track after interruptions
- Enjoy toggling between tasks to make the day more interesting
