An Integrative Model of Attention Load and Its Roles When Solving Complex Problems in Organizations

Both the constraining and enabling forces of attention load interact when decision-makers solve complex problems effectively. Synthesizing strands of educational, cognitive psychology, as well as organization research, we develop a conceptual process framework. It explains the ways in which extrinsic, intrinsic, and germane attention load dynamics shape attention capacity which is necessary for developing a mental model of the problem. In particular, the paper adds internal and external context elements -problem characteristics, frames and support- that influence how attention load unfolds within the problem-solving process. Contributions are intended to be made to attention, problem-solving and decision-making literatures, and to current efforts at making bounded rationality assumptions more humanistic.