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Create Your Own Project Management System by Color Coding

By J. Mason
Online Career Tips Staff

Technology is a beautiful thing when it comes to fancy reminders, and file containment systems. Most of us are carrying around a mini computer in our pockets, yet we still can’t seem to stay organized at work. So, what happens if you can’t find what you’re looking for by sorting through email, or you misnamed a file? Instead of spending hours trying to get yourself organized with the help of technology, use color coding to manage yourself.

I’ve seen a professor use large colored post-it notes, with corresponding colored markers. She said it helped her to remember related items. I use two dry erase boards. One has the tasks for that day, and the other has all of my content that’s outstanding. I have the second board divided into three equal parts and each content type is defined by a different color and letter. Colors draw our attention to certain objects, and if used the right way can be a great management tool.

Create a color key for yourself. Green can be for items that are good to go, blue are items on the back burner, and red are things that are overdue. Just make sure if you’re using this as a supplement to your company’s project management system that it’s very visible. For example, I can’t turn around without seeing mine!

Think of it as interior decorating for your task list. Take a few minutes and enjoy putting it together with all the colors, squiggles, and doodles that relate to the project. It’ll be a nice break, and it may spark some creative ideas!

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