Hey there, Dave Parrish here from Knack Builders. Today, I want to share with you a tool that has become indispensable in my Knack project management toolkit: Trello. Most of my content usually dives into functionality, but today, I'm taking a step back to showcase something that helps me stay organized and productive.
What is Trello?
If you're not familiar, Trello is a straightforward project management software that operates on the Kanban method. It's perfect for visual thinkers like myself who thrive on organizing tasks into manageable boards.
I personally use the free version of Trello because it provides everything I need without the bells and whistles of the paid version. Let me walk you through how I've customized Trello to fit my workflow as a builder with multiple ongoing projects.
Organizing Projects with Trello Boards
Trello organizes tasks into boards, which I've structured to streamline my workflow across various projects. Here’s a breakdown of how I set up my boards:
Periodic Support: This board houses projects that require ongoing maintenance or periodic updates. It helps me keep track of tasks that clients may reach out for intermittently.
On Deck: For upcoming projects in the pipeline. These are the ones I'm preparing to kick off soon.
Jobs Coming Up: Once a project is approved and ready to start, it moves into this phase where I outline the initial steps and timelines.
Project Workflow: Here, I map out the workflow for each project. From initial client approval to various stages of completion (e.g., half-done, two-thirds done), this board gives me a quick snapshot of progress.
Integrating Google Drive for Seamless Access
To complement Trello, I leverage Google Drive extensively. Each project gets a dedicated folder where I store all relevant documents and files. This setup ensures that everything related to a project is easily accessible. I simply link the Google Drive folder to the corresponding Trello card, eliminating the hassle of navigating through multiple tabs and folders.
Simplifying Post-Project Management
Once a project is completed, I archive it in Trello under the "Done" board. For projects likely to require future support, I maintain a separate list under "Periodic Support," allowing me to stay proactive in client follow-ups and potential new business opportunities.
Future Improvements and Extensions
While my current setup works efficiently for me, I'm considering integrating Trello with a CRM system to further streamline client management and communication. This enhancement could potentially bring more sophistication to my project management process.
Conclusion: Why I Stick with Trello
In summary, Trello's simplicity and flexibility have transformed the way I manage my projects. From scattered desktop files to a streamlined workflow using Trello and Google Drive, the transition has been both practical and time-saving. As a builder focused on delivering quality work while staying organized, Trello has proven to be an invaluable ally.
If you're a fellow builder or someone with multiple projects to manage, I highly recommend exploring Trello for its ease of use and effectiveness in project management. It might just be the tool you need to bring order and efficiency to your workflow.
Thanks for tuning in! Until next time, happy building!
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Interested? Book an intro call: https://calendly.com/daveparrish/callwithdave
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