TECH TOOLS
PRODUCTIVITY IS A TAP AWAY By Gracie Rowell Returning to a well-managed routine can be tricky. Getting the motivation to do so can be more difficult than the task itself. This does not mean that it is impossible, though. Using a smartphone to send reminders throughout the day can provide a sense of security and comfort, especially for those that have difficulty remembering every little task. By using a smartphone or desktop, one can be productive at work and home, as described by the apps below.
REMEMBER THE MILK
TOGGL TRACK
RESCUE TIME
FREEDOM
A platform that is cleverly named to help remember the tasks to do throughout the day. Let’s be honest, sometimes it is hard to remember all the tasks at hand. Remember the Milk provides a sense of security in those little things that are forgotten. Users can add an event, note or task to a to-do list and set it up when the reminder goes off. This todo list can be shared with all multiple devices and others on the platform. Let’s say a family member needs to do the dishes. The app sends them a nudge, and it will remind them. This app can help everyone stay on top of their tasks in and out of the workplace. The app is free to download, and offers in-app features for purchase.
Now that the reminders have been sent thanks to Remember The Milk, it is time to see how much time is spent on each task. While the reminder itself may be helpful, it is also important to see if there is too much time being spent on a minuscule item when there are bigger fish to fry. Toggl offers One-Tap time tracking to keep it easier on the user. Simply log the events in the calendar function and provide a time estimate. Toggl will track the time recorded and show users a visual representation of time spent with graphs and charts. Use Toggl to manage time on each task and to stay on time with the time tracking. The app is free for download, and does not require any in-app purchases.
This application focuses on all devices, not just mobile phones. With android, ios and desktop apps, users can identify how much time is spent on any device at hand. The app offers notifications for screen time, reports on time management, a planner and a function that allows unproductive notifications to be silent during the desired work time. Try using this app to manage and track time spent on certain tasks, such as responding and writing emails, organizing data and files and attending meetings. Rescue Time is a great tool to provide balance between work and screen time, even at work. Rescue Time is free to download and also offers in-app purchases for upgraded features.
Tired of getting social notications while at work, then forgetting to respond? Freedom offers a free solution to this problem so social media notifications are saved for later. Freedom users have the ability to put other applications on schedules that will prevent notifications from popping up until the user allows wants to see them. Users may pick which app notifications are blocked until the end of the work day or another preferred time. It is surprising how much one might enjoy the lack of interruptions throughout the day, and how much more engaging social media can be when used with intention. The app is free to download and offers upgrades for purchase.
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