Getting Things Done is a very popular productivity and time management system created by David Allen that has a number of benefits, but at the same time can be a bit too complex for many people. In this post we share our thoughts about this system - its benefits and disadvantages, so that you can decide whether this is the right productivity system for you.
Getting Things Done is a very Organized System
One of the benefits of "Getting Things Done" is that it is a very organized and methodical system with steps and processes neatly outlined for the workflow process, levels of focus and planning. The workflow process for example consists of five steps - collect, process, organize, review, do, and all of these processes are explained. If you need something methodical and organized to keep you on track then this may be a great help.
Getting Things Done Brings Perspective
Another thing I really like about the "Getting Things Done" process is that it brings perspective. It gives you six areas of focus from current actions through to lifetime goals. Something I learnt very young is that seeing the big picture and getting perspective can really help to reduce stress levels and make you a lot more productive. I believe that David Allen's "Getting Things Done" system helps you to achieve this and so can help to improve your productivity.
Getting Things Done Can Be Too Complicated
One of the disadvantages I see to David Allen's system is that it is often too complicated. For example one of the devices that this system uses is the 43 folders concept. Most people, I believe, do not need nearly as many as 43 folders. The steps themselves, although organized and methodical, can also become a bit complicated if you focus too much on them - rather focus on getting things done then on the five step process of how you are doing them.
Getting Things Done, although a very popular system has both advantages and disadvantages and it is important that you decide for yourself whether this is a system that you would like to use or not. It is a very organized and methodical system with a good view on perspective, however if it is too complicated for your particular lifestyle then it should probably be avoided as it could keep you from being productive rather than being more productive.
posted @ Monday, January 21, 2008 1:44 PM | Feedback (0)