It’s the Details, Stupid
At the risk of once again stating the obvious, another way to improved productivity is keeping track of all a project’s details.
Before you start, try to make sure you have all the info needed to accomplish a project at hand. A great guide to acquire this would be “Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How?” If some details aren’t available yet, try to make provisions for them. Like using filler text in place of a missing article example.
While you work, make sure all your collected info is easily accessible. I wouldn’t recommend keeping this on your computer though; write them down! Paper is still more reliable than magnetic 1s and 0s, and it’s easier to glance at a written list than pressing Alt-Tab (or Command-Tab in newer Macs) to switch to your virtual record.
After you’ve finished, use the details to review the project. Is everything done to spec? Are there any mistakes? Have someone else check things out just to be sure, if you can.
Focusing on the details may be a simple thing to do. But great things are made up of simplicities.
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POSTED IN: Ways to Work Faster
2 opinions for It’s the Details, Stupid
Contract Worker - Getting Things Done, Even if 30 Projects are Pending
Feb 24, 2007 at 1:44 pm
[…] Congratulations, your procrastination, lack of attention to detail, or laziness are coming back to haunt you. Or fate has dealt you a disaster or emergency. Now you despair, wondering how you’ll get everything done. […]
Contract Worker - 18 Ways to Stay Focused While Working, Part 1
Mar 14, 2007 at 12:10 pm
[…] Apply time boxing. A great way to manage multiple projects at the same time. Just remember that the key to doing this successfully is to keep the necessary details in mind. […]
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