Sometimes the out of the box apps that come with your phone just aren’t quite enough to organize and prioritize your workload. Whether you are a standalone REALTOR® or you have an assistant or team, everybody needs a workflow system. Work with me here; in the old days we could tape a paper or card on the wall for all involved to see and document progress. Back then we worked in an office about 8 hours a day, no internet, cell phones so all work happened in that space. Today our systems need to be mobile, remote and accessible to one or many as we collaborate on tasks and projects. Work flows used to be simple, today not so much so we need a system to take that paper or card we in the past taped to the wall and work for today’s technology. Please picture a paper or card taped to the wall as I explain Trello.
I like to let companies explain the service they offer so here is Trello describing their platform: “Trello is a project management software that makes it easier for teams to collaborate. Within each Trello board, you can create individual cards outlining the various tasks needed to complete a project. With each card, you can assign due dates, tag other members, create checklists and upload documents and images. The app offers dozens of integrations, including Evernote, Google Drive, and Slack.” Slack? Ring a bell? Go back to an article I wrote about Slack.
Being transparent I have not used Trello but the people I trust for objective views of apps and software rated it as best. I always like to give you options of similar apps and software and, in this case, I have used two of the three apps. I have used Basecamp and Asana and was happy with the ease and capabilities of both platforms, the other one I have not used is AirTable but was ranked in the top four. All four platforms have a free base service which is great to be able to try before you buy. Like any other software or app, it’s up to you to implement and use regularly to get the full benefit of any project management software.
So back to the paper or card taped on the wall, picture making an original template of steps needed to close a deal either working with a buyer or seller. Step by step things need to do, now take to the copier and make copies and as needed write a name on the copy and tape on the wall. Who needs to do what, target dates and if you are the Lone Ranger quickly check progress on your deals. Got the concept? So instead of paper taped on the wall these sheets are on your phone, computer and folks you need to see can be added and collaborate.
Project management software is a very big deal! We cannot track in our head all our deals, projects and steps needed to complete a transaction. Things falling through the cracks is not an option! Once you use a project management software regularly you will be loss without it, BUT need to use it religiously!