Interruptibility

Interruptibility refers to the degree to which something or someone is susceptible to being interrupted or stopped, whether by external factors, distractions, or other intrusions. It can apply to processes, tasks, individuals, or even systems. High interruptibility indicates a vulnerability to breaks in activity, making sustained focus or efficient completion difficult. It is often associated with a lack of resilience to distractions, a proneness to being sidetracked, and potential inefficiency. The concept underscores the importance of maintaining focus and minimizing disruptions for optimal performance and outcomes.

Interruptibility meaning with examples

• The software's high interruptibility caused data corruption as external processes constantly interfered with its calculations. Developers had to implement better thread management to ensure that data processing remained stable without constant stopping and starting. This was a critical consideration, because interruptibility could slow down the entire system.
• A worker with high interruptibility struggles to maintain focus on complex projects. Frequent calls, emails, and office chatter meant their productivity took a hit. They eventually started using noise cancelling headphones and a closed door policy, which allowed them to block the disruptions of the office
• The interruptibility of the assembly line significantly impacted overall output. Any minor malfunction would halt production, creating a bottleneck, because the line operators had to physically go and make the repair. Investing in more robust equipment reduced downtime and increased efficiency.
• In the experiment, the subject’s cognitive interruptibility was measured by their ability to ignore distractions while completing a memory task. People with high interruptibility had more errors than those with lower interruptibility. The results helped understand how distractions can affect a person's ability to focus and do something.