The ability to organise, plan and manage time are all important skills for efficiency and effectiveness in the workplace. The ability to prepare and organise daily work requirements or tasks provides structure or a semblance of order to each working day and can also reduce stress levels.
A range of disabilities can lead to deficits in these areas, such as; an acquired brain injury particularly those affecting frontal lobe functioning, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, an intellectual disability or schizophrenia. Difficulties associated with organisation, planning and the ability to effectively judge and manage time can adversely affect job performance. Some examples include not being prepared at meetings, poor punctuality due to inadequate travel planning or limited reliability as an employee. Fortunately these skill deficits can be improved upon with appropriate aids and support.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
There are strategies, products and supports available to assist workers with organisation and planning in the workplace:
On the job strategies
- establish a buddy system with a co-worker to provide extra support and guidance
Products and Aids
Various organising and timing devices are available including:
Links to other relevant job requirements
Support Services
Lastly, specialist employment agencies who provide coaching and support on the job for those with a disability may also be able to assist with strategies to improve organisation and planning. See Australian Job Search—Disability Employment Network in the Relevant Links section for a list of suitable agencies providing this service (McLaughlin Hale 2004; Brain Injury Association of Queensland Inc. 2007).
References
Brain Injury Association of Queensland Inc. 2007, Understanding the Brain – Fact Sheet, Brain Injury Association of Queensland Inc., Brisbane, viewed 3 April 2009, <http://braininjury.org.au/portal/content/view/136/245/ >.
Brain Injury Association of Queensland Inc. 2007, Information for Employers – Fact Sheet, Brain Injury Association of Queensland Inc., Brisbane, viewed 3 April 2009, <http://braininjury.org.au/portal/fact-sheets/information-for-employers---fact-sheet.html>.
McLaughlin Hale, J. 2004, Organisational Skills, Better Living, Christchurch, viewed 3 April 2009, http://www.betterliving.co.nz/content/atPlay/motivational/organisational-skills.aspx.