The dark side of digitalization: examining the impact of digital overload on job autonomy and job satisfaction

Purpose This study aims to investigate the effects of digital overload on job autonomy and job satisfaction among civil servants in the Nigerian public sector using the job demand–resources model. Design/methodology/approach A questionnaire survey was conducted among mid-career and senior-level officers in five federal ministries in Nigeria. The collected data were analyzed by using structural equation modeling partial least squares to test the research hypotheses and necessary condition analysis to assess the necessary conditions for high satisfaction among civil servants. Findings The study reveals that the use of information and communication technology (ICT) has a significant positive impact on digital overload. Furthermore, digital overload has a significant negative effect on job autonomy and adversely affects job satisfaction. Additionally, job autonomy partially mediates the relationship between digital overload and job satisfaction. Job autonomy and ICT use were found to be necessary conditions for high satisfaction. Research limitations/implications The study acknowledges certain limitations, such as the focus on civil servants in federal ministries in Nigeria and the reliance on self-reported data. Practical implications The findings of this study have practical implications for policymakers in the Nigerian civil service. They highlight the importance of reducing digital overload and promoting job autonomy to enhance job satisfaction, as well as to improve the overall performance and efficiency of the public sector. Originality/value This study contributes to the existing literature by providing insights into the detrimental effects of digital overload on civil servants’ job autonomy and satisfaction in the Nigerian public sector. It explores a relatively unexplored aspect of digitalization and emphasizes the need to address the negative implications of digital overload. Additionally, it examines the necessary conditions for high satisfaction among civil servants.