Collection

4 phases of workflow management by Allen

We are putting all that distracts our attention
We make it clear. What is it?
Sort out
We make a sequence of concrete following things

Collection

It is obvious that we need a single container, which will get new ideas, things, any new information. Regardless of the context priority. It is also obvious that the container must be emptied from time to time.

What kind of container? Choose:

Plastic folder
Notebook
Dictaphone
PDA
Another small but important rule: in the collection, if it can be done immediately, spending on it no more than 2 minutes — do it!

The very first time the collection is as follows: first, we walk around the office, then the house, then wherever we go. We glance at each corner. Everywhere “lie” some forgotten things. And at the end — look in your head.

Thereafter rid the container.

From the container business can get:

The project folder (if it is a specific action — good, if not — it is necessary to break it down into specific actions)
Is a project by itself
In the folder “Someday” (here they break into action is no longer necessary). For example, a “learn Spanish”
In the folder “Reference material” on some project. For example, the restaurant’s menu or phone number. Also, there is a folder “General Information” — to all that was not included in the project folder.
Nowhere — in the trash
Do not perform ever more than one item at a time, never put the case back in the container! And observe strict sequence — on how you put in the container. Do not look at priority!