Mid Sweden University

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to explore experiences with and causes of the work interruptions and fragmentation that occur in the daily work of academic staff. This research also aims to explore strategies for managing these issues.

Methodology: As part of a research project, data were collected from a workshop featuring academics to investigate their experiences of workfragmentation and the strategies they used to manage this issue. These academics were asked to individually write down ways of creating coherent time and their perceptions of the reasons underlying the fragmentation of work. They were then asked to discuss and reflect on this topic in groups based on their work roles, after which the groups’ answers were summarized. The written answers were analysed by a total of four researchers working on this project in two separate rounds.

Findings: The analysis resulted in fourteen group labels of experiences and causes of work interruptions and fragmentation, including Knowledge, Resources, Communication, Unplanned tasks, Planning, Digital systems, Processes, Job duties, Administration, (Over)ambition, Meetings, Set-up time, Quality work and Help and support. In the analysis of the strategies used to manage work interruptions and fragmentation, seven groups were identified: Conscious planning to create space for coherent time, Need for knowledge that offers the ability to create coherent time, Control the communication, Support/lead, Working hours, Prioritize, and Respect others and their time.

Research limitations/implications: The research was conducted by reference to a group of heads of subjects drawn from one university.

Originality/Value: Qualitative research on interruptions and fragmentation in higher education institutes (HEI) is rare.