Sometimes the best tool for information management is time management.
I had an interesting conversation today with someone who felt that a particular listserv had gems of good information but that the overall value was not worth the noise.
I tend to agree. I get the particular listserv in digest form but still find it difficult to make myself review it daily for the few gems I do receive. The search feature for the archives of the listserv also disappointed my conversation partner.
She made a conscience decision to not receive the listserv any longer as a part of her time management strategy. Interesting. As my schedule continues to tighten over the next several weeks I realize that my own time management skills are going to need some serious honing.
I know that my best personal productivity is early in the morning and from about 3-7 in the evening. Of course, the home duties are also at a premium during that time as well. The dogs have just gotten to used to feeding time at 6:30 a.m and 5:30 p.m.
I also have a variety of deadlines that involve other people’s schedules over the next few weeks. Planning around my work and personal calendar and their calendars will be a challenge.
Collaborative work on-line is definitely an advantage but it is not always possible. Sometimes you must meet with people (not have a meeting) in order to allow the creativity and problem solving to occur. That takes additional time.
Routine is important and so is flexibility. As I adjust to added demands on my schedule and meet my upcoming deadlines I will need to build time in for routine tasks as well.
Controlling my information flow will be critical. Constantly checking email or Twitter will not be a part of the routine. Twice a day response time to email will be built into the new schedule. After-hours will be the social media time.
Managing my information, both incoming and outgoing, will benefit from better time management. And my time will be better managed with these new information workflows.
What is your favorite time/information management tip. Feel free to share in the comments section. I’m sure I will benefit from your expertise.
Constance Ard February 5, 2009
