Engineering Culture by InfoQ

The Myth of 100% Utilization: The Neuroscience of Productive Teams

Sep 19, 2025
Guest
Shannon Mason
Shannon Mason, Chief Strategy Officer at Tempo Software, dives into the real cost of chasing 100% utilization. With a rich background in product and engineering, she reveals how this obsession leads to cognitive overload and burnout. Shannon explains the neuroscience behind focus and introduces game-changing tactics like time-blocking to enhance productivity. She emphasizes the importance of balancing beneficial slack time with idle waiting and shares insights on how leaders can foster healthier work environments by making strategic adjustments.
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INSIGHT

100% Utilization Harms Cognitive Performance

  • High utilization harms decision quality because chronic cognitive overload shrinks working memory and causes decision fatigue.
  • Shannon Mason argues leaders must protect people from 100% utilization to preserve mental acuity and product quality.
ANECDOTE

GitLab Example: Clear Communication Norms

  • Shannon recalls GitLab's disciplined use of Slack versus email to reduce interruptions and protect focus.
  • She credits clear communication norms with improving team concentration and reducing context switching.
ADVICE

Don't Make Big Decisions When Exhausted

  • Avoid scheduling major decisions on days filled with meetings because decision quality drops with fatigue.
  • Shannon Mason advises reserving thoughtful work for times when your brain is fresh to prevent suboptimal quick choices.
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