CHAPTER 2
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
Introduction
This chapter reviews the existing literature on time management practices, focusing on the Eisenhower Matrix and its
applications. Various studies have examined the effectiveness of this structured framework in different contexts, including small
businesses and educational settings. These studies provide valuable insights into how the Eisenhower Matrix can enhance
productivity and decision-making by helping individuals prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance.
The studies collected and reviewed are presented under the following headings:
1. The Eisenhower Matrix
2. Task Management Systems
3. Psychological Aspects of Time Mangement
4. Time Management Practices of Small-Business Owners
5. The Illusion of Urgency
6. Application in Educational Settings
The Eisenhower Matrix
Eisenhower, D. D. (2018) provides a detailed overview of the Eisenhower Matrix, a tool for time management developed
by Dwight D. Eisenhower. The matrix classifies tasks according to their urgency and importance, which helps individuals
prioritize their workload. It is widely applied due to its simplicity and effectiveness in improving productivity and decision-
making. This source provides practical guidance on how to apply the matrix in everyday life and work by giving examples of tasks
that fit into each quadrant. It also discusses the historical context of the matrix and how it was developed by Eisenhower during
his tenure as a military leader and President of the United States.
Task Management Systems
In the research study of Jyothi, N. S., & Parkavi, A. (2016), they examine various task management
systems, with a focus on structured frameworks such as the Eisenhower Matrix. They did an comprehensive review
of various task management tool and their effectiveness in improving productivity. Their study supports the use of Eisenhower
Matrix. The point out that Eisenhower Matrix is easier to implement, allowing users to emphasize high-priority
tasks or delegate or discard low-priority ones. In their study, they also illustrate it with practical examples and
case study on how matrix can be used in practice within the workplace itself, from small business toward enhancing time on task
activity.
Psychological Aspects of Time Mangement
According to the research study of Aeon, B., and Aguinis, H. (2017) it says that understanding the mental and emotional
aspects of time management can result in more effective strategies. In this study, they present new perspectives and insights on
time management, underscoring its role in boosting performance and achieving business objectives. They provide valuable
guidance for small business owners and managers aiming to optimize their time and enhance productivity, with a focus on the
psychological factors that influence how individuals perceive and manage time.
Time Management Practices of Small-Business Owners
In the research study of McNamara, P. M. (2016) it examines how small-business owner-managers handle their time.
Through having an interviews and surveys, McNamara gathered information about the time management strategies and tools
the business owner-managers use. The result shows that using a structured time management methods, such as the Eisenhower
Matrix, leads to improved business outcomes, lower stress levels, and greater operational efficiency. The study highlights the
difficulties small-business owners face in juggling various roles and offers suggestions for having an effective time management
practices to have a great business success.
The Illusion of Urgency
In the research study of Kennedy, D. R., & Porter, A. L. (2022), they examines the concept of the "illusion of urgency" in
time management. The authors argue that individuals often misclassify tasks as urgent due to perceived pressure rather than
actual importance. This misclassification can lead to inefficiencies and stress. The study critiques the Eisenhower Matrix by
highlighting potential pitfalls in urgency-based decision-making. Through a series of experiments and surveys, the authors found
that individuals relying heavily on the perception of urgency may neglect important but less urgent tasks. The research suggests
that a more balanced approach to task prioritization, considering both urgency and long-term importance, is essential for
effective time management.
Application in Educational Settings
Monsalve et al. (2020) used the Eisenhower Matrix as a time management tool for Grade 12 ABM students
and proved that it was effective in prioritizing tasks according to urgency and importance. The study showed that the students
who made it a habit to use the matrix enhanced their organizational skills, reduced stress, and obtained better academic results.
This is in tune with broader literature on time management strategies, insisting that structured tools such as the Eisenhower
Matrix are good for productivity and concentration in scholarly settings.
Summary
In summary, the literature emphasizes the flexibility and efficiency of the Eisenhower Matrix in various contexts, including
small businesses and educational settings. The studies have shown that it improves productivity, reduces stress,
and enhances task prioritization. However, one needs to take into account psychological factors and avoid the pitfalls of
urgency-based decision-making to get the best results. The insights from these studies support the adoption of structured time
management tools for enhancing efficiency and productivity.
References
Aeon, B., & Aguinis, H. (2017). It’s about time: New perspectives and insights on time management. Academy of management perspectives, 31(4), 309-330.
Eisenhower, D. D. (2018). Eisenhower Matrix. Luettavissa: https://www. eisenhower. me/eisenhowermatrix/. Luettu, 20.
Jyothi, N. S., & Parkavi, A. (2016, May). A study on task management system. In 2016 International Conference on Research Advances in Integrated
Navigation Systems (RAINS) (pp. 1-6). IEEE.
Kennedy, D. R., & Porter, A. L. (2022). The illusion of urgency. American journal of pharmaceutical education, 86(7), 8914.
McNamara, P. M. (2016). An exploration of the time-management behaviours of small-business owner-managers.
Monsalve, E. M., Navarro, R., Cruz, S. J. D., Develles, J. R., Espartiro, C., & Tamon, C. J. (2020). Assessment on effectiveness of Eisenhower matrix in
improving time management of selected grade 12 ABM students. Ascendens Asia Singapore–Bestlink College of the Philippines Journal of Multidisciplinary
Research, 2(1).
