Definition of Hyperactive Hive Mind

Front of a vocabulary card for the term Hyperactive Hive Mind

The Hyperactive Hive Mind is a state in which constant digital communication and collaboration lead to decision fatigue within a group.

Back of a vocabulary card for the term Hyperactive Hive Mind

Pronunciation Spelling

HY-per-AK-tiv HYV MYND

Example Sentence

Due to Hyperactive Hive Mind, the team experienced increased activity but decreased throughput.

Significance

Agile practitioners should understand the term “Hyperactive Hive Mind” to recognize the negative impact of excessive collaboration without productivity. It signifies a scenario where constant discussions and interactions occur without leading to meaningful progress or concrete outcomes. Identifying this state helps practitioners address inefficiencies in collaboration and redirect efforts towards more focused and productive teamwork, ensuring discussions result in actionable outcomes rather than aimless conversations.

Works Consulted

In addition to any sources cited above, the following works informed my thinking:(1), (2), (3), (4)

1.
Newport C. A World Without Email: Reimagining Work in an Age of Communication Overload [Internet]. Portfolio; 2021. Available from: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54326146-a-world-without-email
2.
Newport C. CORE IDEA: The Case Against Email [Internet]. YouTube; 2022 [cited 2023 Oct 2]. Available from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CsRmOfeBRnw&t=74s
3.
Doll K. What Is the Hyperactive Hive Mind & What Feeds It? [Internet]. Shortform; 2022 [cited 2023 Oct 2]. Available from: https://www.shortform.com/blog/hyperactive-hive-mind/
4.
How to escape the ‘hyperactive hivemind’ of modern work [Internet]. BBC; 2019 [cited 2023 Oct 2]. Available from: https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20190715-how-to-escape-the-hyperactive-hivemind-of-modern-work