According to a 2020 survey on Statista, the average American has access to more than ten connected devices in their household. Add devices provided by workplaces to that number and it can quickly become overwhelming to manage how you use those devices to do your job on a daily basis. However, the need to seamlessly work in different environments at different times is critical right now and creating an efficient workflow that capitalizes on the technology available can be an outstanding skill to master.
How do you create a seamless workflow across multiple devices while remaining efficient in your work? These four steps can help you establish a system that works for you.
Identify the programs or apps you use the most
Over the next week, take some time to jot down the programs or apps you use the most for your work. There’s no need to get fancy here – just a simple notepad by your desk will work. Make note of the applications you’re using the most often and how you use them.
Next, find out if those particular programs are available on multiple devices. For example, Evernote is a popular note taking app for mobile devices and it’s also available for iPad and desktop computers. If the program you use is not available on multiple devices, do a quick search with the name of the program and “alternative” and see if you can find an equivalent. New apps are available all the time so if you can’t find what you’re looking for, follow iOS news on Kubadownload.com to see some of the latest releases and reviews.
Sync your data whenever possible
Once you’ve identified the programs and apps that will work across several platforms, take advantage of the syncing features. This will prevent you from having to use third-party tools like Dropbox to save your items and re-download them.
For example, if you find yourself creating documents in Google Docs, anytime you open your document, even on a new device, your work will be right there waiting for you! By syncing your work on each of the platforms, you’ll be able to stop and start seamlessly no matter where you are.
Create work zones
Working across multiple devices is most useful when it relies on a process. Perhaps you’re working from home right now so the majority of your work is happening on a desktop computer in your home office. However, on the one day a week you need to visit the office, you can take your laptop and continue just where you left off at home.
Or, if you’re working in an office most days on a computer but need to finish up a project at home, create a work zone at home equipped with an iPad that has all the applications you need. Need to head a meeting? Take the iPad with you or use your smartphone to make some quick edits on the go.
By creating work zones, you’ll have a standard workflow to follow and reduce time spent looking for files, converting them to a new format, or having to start all over.
Plan for some “tech-free time”
It’s really important to also build some “tech-free” time into your day, too. The power of an old-fashioned legal pad and pen can do wonders for creativity and prevent you from getting distracted by the other tabs, notifications, and pop-ups you’ll inevitably face while using a screen.
Managing your work on several different devices can sound daunting at first but by walking through these four steps, you’ll be on your way to finding a rhythm and routine that works for you and has you equipped to tackle any assignment from anywhere!
