Make a list. Simple.
Or is it? In this time of new media augmented reality, it is easy to go gaga over what technology can do for you. Before you know it, you are so wrapped up in a loop of systems you forget the basics that got you here, namely, the venerable to-do list.
The to-do list has always been the gold standard for getting things done, regardless of your area of specialty, level of skill with technology, or hierarchy within your organization.
A couple of weeks ago I discovered a simple tool that makes the to-do list better. Stay with me. It makes it better by making it simpler, by sharing it, and by accomplishing all of that in real time.
Simple
Checkvist is the social media inspired application that I have come to love, especially at this time of the year when we are all making plans.
I'm using Checkvist to capture all kinds of thoughts and ideas that I can then tackle one-at-a-time. The simplicity of the keystrokes is what makes it work so well. Once you memorize a handful of simple keystrokes, you can build your list in a few seconds and manage it accordingly, by adding a short note, prioritizing, and even color-coding - all with the flick of the finger.
Here's how it works: A slap of the space bar strikes an item to show it as completed. A simple 'enter' keystroke adds a new item to the list, two e's edits the field, and two n's opens a field for notes. Simple. Now tell me this won't make it a snap to create a list in less than 60 seconds? You can also create cascading lists within a larger list that can be assigned to different members of your team.
And this brings me to what really makes this FREE site sing.
Sharing
I'm using Checkvist to collaborate with my consulting clients. And they love it! Checkvist allows me to share my lists by inviting others in to not just view the list online, but also to give them the ability to participate in the creation, progress, and completion of those tasks. My clients can now manage their budget by completing easier tasks on their own time, or if they choose, they can delegate it all to me.
The feedback I'm receiving from clients is they enjoy seeing the list to get a sense of the agenda - what is necessary to get to the finish line. They don't have to wonder what's next. It's right in front of them. If they have comments to make, that is easily done. And it can be done on their own time.
Real-Time Collaboration
Much like Google Wave, Checkvist allows me and a client to collaborate, in this case by building a list together. As soon as one of us adds something to the list, it is right there for all of us to see. And if one of us decides to modify the list during the wee hours of the night, that information is readily shared. Here's how:
Checkvist will send you an email to let you know that progress has been made by the other users. This particular feature is only available with the paid version, which costs a nominal $15 for six months. If you still want to keep it free, no worries. You can also accomplish this through a self-generated email to the other users - all straight from the Checkvist platform.
Here are some lists I'm working on that will give you ideas for getting started.
- 2010 Goals and Objectives - This is THE list we are all working on.
- Dr Bill Dean - A client who is an expert in the science of energy healing.
- Cody Landscape - Another client who is a top landscaping firm in Fort Worth, Texas.
- Week of January 4th - Just what I need to hit the ground running.
- Whenever List - Those things I want to do whenever I get the time.
- Motivation - Thoughts to remind me to be thankful, how to stay focused, and things like that. I take a peek at it every morning just before my daily meditation, right from my iPhone.
Checkvist does not yet have an iPhone or Android app, but for the time being, you can use Checkvist.com/m.
I've been communicating with the folks at Checkvist on Twitter. You can do the same by following @checkvist_news on Twitter.
Are you ready to make a list?
Try this: What is the one problem your clients most need solved?
Now break it down, share it, and get it done!
Photo Credit: Ebby
