After 18 years in IT, I'm currently a network manager, juggling a lot of responsibilities. With so many projects on my plate, I'm struggling to stay organized and focused. My notes are scattered across OneNote, Microsoft Loop, and I've got about 700 Notepad++ documents open. I desperately need some structure to manage my projects, documentation, and task lists effectively. Has anyone else experienced this chaos? What strategies or tools have worked for you?
5 Answers
Lighten the load by using something simple like Microsoft To-Do. It's included in Office 365 and great for keeping track of tasks without overwhelming you. If you want something visual, you could even go old school with a physical kanban board! Whatever works for you, just make sure it's a system you can easily access and update!
I can totally relate! I use our ticketing system to keep track of projects by creating linked tickets for subtasks. For documentation, I either jot down notes in the ticket itself or use a platform like Bookstack for more permanent records. Having everything in one place really helps to stay organized!
It's not just about the tools, but the processes you have in place. You might want to look into project management training since you have a leadership role. Prioritize having a clear view of all ongoing tasks and set deadlines. Using tools with Gantt chart features can help you visualize your projects better and manage tasks effectively. An organized overview can reduce stress significantly!
Great points! Have you thought about what your project management office (PMO) process looks like? A formal process can handle what you’re feeling overwhelmed by. If there’s no PMO, you might need to step up as the temporary project manager until you find someone to take over.
I haven’t tried Loop, but I've loved using Asana for project management. It keeps everything organized in one place. If you’re looking for alternatives, Monday.com might work well for you too. Just find a tool that you can get into a rhythm with and stick to it!
Haha, I’ve had my own Notepad++ disasters too! But seriously, finding the right tool can make all the difference.
Honestly, what you need isn't just a note system—it's a proper project management system. Using something with Gantt chart capabilities can help streamline everything. The first step is to ditch the Notepad++ chaos and start tracking tasks as part of your project workflow. Once you get into the habit of categorizing everything into a project, it makes managing tasks so much easier!
Exactly! It’s all about having a single source of truth. If you can attach documents to your tickets, that keeps all relevant info right in front of you.