Experiment - My Personal Productivity System

I could be more productive with a better method of organizing my actions.  With that in mind, I checked out the audiobook verision of David Allen's book "Getting Things Done" and listened on my commutes.

The book describes a reasanable approach to handling the ever-increasing amount of "stuff" that is crossing my desk, email, voicemail, etc.  I've decided to give this a try.  Today's post describes the first steps of my journey to becomming a more productive PM and person.





First, here is a graphical model of Mr. Allen's method:

So here is my plan:

1.  Inbox(es) - Stuff comes into two email boxes, two snail mail boxes, two voicemail boxes, and direct to me via phone calls, IMs, and conversations (e.g., "Honey Do" list).  I will cary a physical inbox (file folder) in my bag and also a reporters notebook to collect stuff while I am away from my bag and PC. 

2.  Processing - I will process the email boxes and voice mail boxes daily; snail mail boxes weekly; and physical inbox and reporters notebook daily (business days).

3. Organizing - Calendars (Appointments and Incubation Items)

4. Organizing - Lists - I have wet up two trello pages - one for work and one for home (aka - not work).  Each page has lists for Next Actions; Waiting For . . .; Projects; and Someday.  Here is a picture of my current to do @ Work page . . .

Sidebar:  Trello is VERY COOL and the price is right!

5.  Reviewing - Calendars daily, Trello pages daily, projects defined per project.

I'm actually having a blast going through all my stuff and loading this new system.  In theory, I will become more productive as I stop stressing because I know all my actions/promises are stored in a trusted system and will be reviewed soon.

I'll let you know how that goes :)