Urgent vs important. The Eisenhower matrix
Abstract
A successful project is one that can accomplish a balance between three factors: scope, time and cost. This is what is known as the Iron Triangle [1] . The quality of a project in the center of it all is constrained by the administration of these three factors. In order to fulfill the established triangle, and therefore the project be a success, there must be an effective task management amongst people in the team[2]. There is a global misconception of what is important and what is urgent when it comes to task prioritization. President Dwight D. Eisenhower developed a method to classify and plan tasks in relation to these two factors: importance and urgency, in which tasks are organized in a matrix of 2x2, categorized in Do, Schedule, Delegate and Don’t do.
This article aims to portray the current society in which we live in, where outcomes are needed “for yesterday”. Urgent activities are much more visible short-term, were as important matters will pay off on the long run[2]. With the Eisenhower matrix [ ] as a starting point a step by step guide of this task management tool will help you identify the tasks that are urgent but important and leave out the ones that are distracting you from achieving personal effectiveness[3].
Contents |
What are important and urgent tasks?
Brief introduction to the history of the Eisenhower matrix and the concept. Definition of important and urgent tasks.
The Eisenhower matrix
Step by step guide for using the tool and example case/s of scenarios to be used in. Redefinition of the matrix with Stephen Covey's Time Management Matrix (necessity, important, distraction, waste).
Advantages and limitations
What is useful and what should you be aware of when using the matrix.
References
- ↑ Caccamese, A. & Bragantini, D. (2012). Beyond the iron triangle: year zero. Paper presented at PMI® Global Congress 2012—EMEA, Marsailles, France. Newtown Square, PA: Project Management Institute.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 Covey, S. R. (2004). The 7 habits of highly effective people: Powerful lessons in personal change (25th anniversary edition.). New York: Simon & Schuster.
- ↑ Kennedy DR, Porter AL. (2021) The Illusion of Urgency. Am J Pharm Educ. 29:8914. doi: 10.5688/ajpe8914. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 34716138.
