Design and Validation of a Personal Knowledge Management Model for Controlling Information Overload

Document Type : Research َ Article

Authors

1 PhD student, Knowledge and Information Science Department, NT.C., Islamic Azad University Tehran, Iran

2 Associate Professor, Knowledge and Information Science Department, NT.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Purpose :In today’s data-driven world, the exponential growth of information has created serious challenges for concentration, decision-making, and learning. Personal knowledge management, as an intelligent tool for organizing and filtering information, plays a crucial role in controlling information overload. Accordingly, the purpose of this study is to design and validate a personal knowledge management model aimed at controlling information overload and to provide a scientific framework for enhancing cognitive efficiency and optimize the use of data.
Method: This is an applied–developmental study aimed at designing and validating an integrated and practical model. Mthodologically, it is a cross-sectional survey study employing both qualitative and quantitative data. To achieve the research objectives, an exploratory mixed-methods approach was employed. In the qualitative phase, a comprehensive review of scientific and research literature available in reputable international and domestic databases from 2016 to 2024 was conducted, identifying 51 relevant articles. After thorough evaluation, 46 articles were purposively selected for analysis. This qualitative analysis helped extract the main components and indicators of personal knowledge management and information overload control. In the quantitative phase, data were collected through a researcher-developed questionnaire based on the qualitative findings from 150 managers and experts at the National Library and Archives of Iran (NLAI). Data collection tools included document analysis and the questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) and partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM).
Findings: The findings revealed that components such as knowledge security, knowledge acquisition, data analysis and processing, new knowledge creation, and effective knowledge storage directly influence the process of knowledge sharing among individuals. Moreover, knowledge sharing plays a crucial mediating role and affects employees’ individual, organizational, and technological knowledge skills. These skills, in turn, enhance individual factors such as self-efficacy, learning motivation, and information literacy, which are essential prerequisites for effective control of information overload. Additionally, instrumental, technological, and organizational factors—particularly the use of modern knowledge management systems, IT support, and the development of a suitable organizational culture—play a decisive role in mitigating information overload.
Conclusion: Implementing the designed personal knowledge management model can effectively reduce information overload among employees at the National Library and Archives of Iran (NLAI). This model enhances individual skills in information management, knowledge selection, and content prioritization, leading to increased cognitive productivity, improved decision-making, and higher job satisfaction.
 

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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History

  • Receive Date: 01 July 2025
  • Revise Date: 01 November 2025
  • Accept Date: 23 November 2025
  • Publish Date: 06 August 2026

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