Personal Productivity
Empowering Knowledge Workers in an Age of Hyper-Connectivity
In today's information-driven economy, the ability to manage focus, maintain mental well-being, and navigate complex digital environments has become a critical competency. While Information Systems (IS) provide the tools for modern value creation, they simultaneously contribute to information overload and cognitive exhaustion.
At our chair, we explore the intersection of technology, psychology, and neuroscience to redefine what it means to be productive. We believe that true personal productivity is not just about "doing more," but about designing digital environments and habits that support the human brain's natural strengths while mitigating the dysfunctions of work intensification.
Research Projects
Adaptive Assistance Systems for Academic Procrastination
How can digital systems effectively support student self-regulation?
Academic procrastination is a persistent challenge in higher education, where students must navigate substantial autonomy while competing with algorithmically curated social media platforms designed to capture attention.
This project investigates how procrastination unfolds in real study contexts by combining behavioral insights with contextual usage data. We develop personalized Just-in-Time Adaptive Interventions (JITAI) that address individual triggers and support students precisely when self-regulation is most at risk.
By bridging rigorous behavioral science with iterative Design Science Research, we aim to create effective digital interventions for students and a transferable blueprint for personalized behavior change support systems.
Designing Information Systems for Personal Productivity
How should information systems support knowledge work?
Knowledge workers face growing demands to process information, collaborate digitally, and adapt continuously—often at the expense of focus, motivation, and well-being.
This project explores how information systems can foster sustainable productivity by integrating insights from psychology, neuroscience, and information systems research to develop evidence-based digital workplace solutions.
By combining behavioral science with Design Science Research, we aim to create transferable design principles that enable healthier and more effective knowledge work.
YouTube Channel
Insights from Professor Ahlemann Beyond our active research, we maintain a comprehensive collection of video resources dedicated to personal productivity. Professor Ahlemann’s YouTube channel serves as a digital library, bridging the gap between academic theory and practical application.
Key Topics covered:
- Actionable Techniques: Proven methods for goal setting, time management, and efficiency.
- Scientific Deep Dives: Research-based insights into mindset and cognitive ergonomics.
