Did you know that productivity can fall by as much as 40% when workers try to take on more than one task?
How's your business running? Does it seem like there is always something that needs to get done and never enough time to do it? If so, you're not alone.
Most businesses face this task dilemma at some point. The good news is that there is a solution.
Task management can help you take control of your business. Those tasks will be like clockwork.
Want to learn how to apply task management in your workplace? If so, keep reading for our ultimate guide.
What's task management?
Task management is managing tasks and resources to achieve specific goals. It involves planning, tracking, and communication so that work happens within time.
There are many ways to approach task management. The most important thing is to find a task management system that works for your business.
Before tackling task management, it's essential to understand the basics. Here are the questions you should be asking:
- What is a task?
- What are the steps involved in managing a task?
- Who handles each step?
A task is a specific, individualized work that needs to happen. Those tasks need to have objectives and key results.
There are four steps involved in managing a task.
Planning
Planning is when you define the task, set a deadline, and assign responsibility. It's essential to be as specific as possible when planning. The more information you have, the better you can prepare.
Tracking
Tracking is when you'll follow the progress and confirm the task is on track. This tracking often happens through regular check-ins and status updates.
Communication
Communication is when you'll keep everyone informed about the task's status. That can happen through project management software, reports, or face-to-face meetings.
Resolution
Resolution is when you'll confirm the task is complete and meets the goal. It's also when you'll document what happened and what can improve.
What are the different task management tools?
Task management is crucial because it helps individuals and teams effectively manage tasks. It allows you to see the big picture and track progress. That's essential for meeting deadlines and avoiding overlap in work.
Task management applications help you plan, track, and communicate tasks. There are many different applications you can select.
Find a solution that fits your business. Otherwise, you'll likely end up frustrated with the application and its features. Furthermore, you'll be wasting money better spent elsewhere.
There are three main fields of management tools. Here's a quick overview.
Manual task management tools
Manual task management tools are any physical tools you use to manage tasks. These tools include a whiteboard, sticky notes, or a to-do list.
The advantage of manual task management tools is that they are low-cost and easy to use. The downside is that they are less efficient and are easy to lose or misplace.
Electronic task management tools
Electronic task management tools are software applications that help you manage tasks. The most popular electronic task management tool is Microsoft Excel.
The advantages of electronic task management tools are that they are efficient. They're also customizable to fit your business. The downside is that they can be expensive and need some training to work.
Online task management tools
Online task management tools are cloud-based applications that help you manage tasks. They combine the best features you get from electronic tools with the internet.
The advantages of these tools are that they are accessible from anywhere and easy to use. The downside is that they can be expensive and need an internet connection.
What benefits do task management software offer?
Are you working on a single or several projects? Do you have a team to manage? If so, task management software can save you time and boost your productivity.
Task management software is a tool that helps you create and track projects, goals, and tasks. It can be for personal or team purposes.
There are many benefits of using this software. Here are the most notable ones.
1. Organize tasks
With task management software, you can create a to-do list and track the progress of your tasks. That way, you can see which tasks are overdue and which ones are upcoming.
2. Rank tasks
With task management software, you can rank your tasks according to their importance. You can focus on the most critical tasks and get them done sooner.
3. Track progress
With task management software, you can track your progress on a task or project. This way, you can see how close you are to completing it.
4. Communicate with your team
Task management software can communicate with your team members about a task. This way, everyone is on the same page and knows what needs to happen.
5. Stay on budget
With task management software, you can track your expenses and stay on budget. This way, you can avoid overspending on a project or task.
6. Meet deadlines
You can set deadlines for your tasks and projects with task management software. That way, you can make sure everything happens on time.
7. Avoid overlap issues
If you have many projects, task management software can help you avoid overlap issues. With this software, you can see which tasks relate and confirm there's no interference.
Get with a task management platform today
Now you know the importance of task management. There's nothing wrong with using manual tools. They have their uses.
You can still incorporate manual tools into your business. That said, do you want to be more productive and organized? If so, electronic and online task management tools are the way to go.
Task management software offers many benefits that can help you boost your productivity. If you're not using it, now is the time to start.
An online platform will streamline your workflow. Want a deeper understanding of your workforce to make it stronger? Check out our services!
