Jul 11, 2017
HOW TO CHOOSE A PRODUCTIVITY APP.
What is a productivity app? I am referring to the calendar, reminder/to-do, and notes apps.
Let me point out one very important thing: there is no such thing as a perfect productivity app.
Step one: try to use what you already have on your device. Many people assume these apps are horrible but that's not always true. Have you tried to use the pre-installed apps? They just might serve your needs. If not, then...
Step two: Ask your friends and colleagues what they use and why. Ask to see the app and how they use it. What do they like about it? What don't they like? What would they change about it?
See what’s hot in your App Store. Read all reviews - not just the 4 and 5 Star ones. Why did it get bad reviews? Perhaps the reasons some people gave it bad reviews would be the same concerns you have.
Read reviews online. Preferably unsponsored ones.
Try it out if it’s free. Keep in mind that you often you get what you pay for. Developing an app costs money. I own several premium apps that are phenomenal - but not perfect.
And then there's this. It's okay to combine apps that do the same thing. I use the iOS Calendar because I like the day view option that my favorite calendar app, Fantastical 2, doesn't have. So, I create events in Fantastical 2 but view the events on iOS Calendar. I just recently started doing this. Think outside the box if you need to.
Guess what? Even if you pay for an app, it’s okay to change! You are not obligated to keep using an app.
Here are the links to the apps I am currently using (but am not paid to use):
Things 3 (to-do app), iOS and Mac only - I'm currently a beta tester for this app. I use the iPhone, iPad and Mac version. Paid app.
Fantastical 2 (combines reminders and calendars into one app), iOS and Mac only. Paid app.
My review of Things 3 that I mentioned is here.
If you’re looking to take your productivity to the next level or if you are interested in bringing me in to speak at your event, visit MarkStruczewski.com.
Join The 7 Day Productivity Challenge or go to MarkStruczewski.com/7day
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