Getting Things Done...

1. How did you organize your process? (are you using paper and pencil, a phone, a piece of software)?

My review of the Kelly Forrister system reminded me of a system that I used years ago when I started my career as a professional. The system had similar steps for organizing but did not work effectively for my type of work. I improved on this system by customizing it for the kinds of information that I handled, the speed that I needed to make decisions, and the other people working with me.

My system actually combines collect and organize together so that I am always sorting info as I receive it right away. I do use a variety of “buckets” to sort – projects, calendar and next actions. I also have an idea bucket.

So here is my new and improved system:

1. Collect: I am currently using a variety of collection points which are determined by their function.

a. Projects – projects have electronic folders and physical folders. I am a member of a variety of committees and there are always handouts at the meetings.

b. Docs - I also use multiple types of documents for each project. These are collected in folders on my office computer.

c. Fences – software on my desktop that helps me to group similar folders under one grouping or surrounded by a “fence”. This helps me to keep current projects visible and organized on my desktop.

d. Next Actions - Project pads – I have a variety of projects in various stages of completion. I keep track of the next steps for each project on separate pads to organize the thoughts and logical flow.  Some of the pads are paper, some electronic, depending on how I need to access and who else needs to access.

e. Calendar –   a. work: electronic shared by all staff.

b. personal: paper calendar in a binder for quick access of schedule and fast changes.

f. Ideas – note pads / voice recorder – my subconscious mind works on problems when I am driving every day to work or home (about 20 min each). I keep a small note pad and a voice recorder in my car just for this reason. When I arrive at my destination I transfer the idea to the suitable collection point.

2. What was it like for you going through the process the first time?

Since I used many of the elements already listed it was not too difficult for me to adjust to the new and improved system. The biggest change was in the “Do” step. I was forced to really think hard about what I can do based on time, energy and the priority given. I am still working this step into my system but I think that if I can refine this step this would be very good for me.

3. Do you think that this process will help you? Why or why not?

The process already has been good for me. I am a organized person but some of the steps

 in this process helped me to improve my organization ideas. I want to further develop the action steps.   

4. Do you think you will continue this process? If not, what will your process be?

I will continue the process and look at ways to improve on it.