5 tools that will save you time at work
There are many different tools for workers to use, whether they are working remotely or within the workspace. Most of these tools have the same purpose: saving workers time. This saved time can then be used in different areas, which can essentially mean more productivity.
Continue reading to learn at least five different tools that can save you time in the workplace and allow you to be more efficient!
Voice recognition software
The first tool that we will talk about that could save you time at work comes in the form of voice recognition software. This type of software is more readily available and accessible than it ever was, even just a few short years ago. It works how you would imagine, with you being able to type potentially quicker through your voice.
The software works by taking in your voice and dictating text that you say out loud. This tool will be a lifesaver for those who aren’t the quickest at typing but speak well. Some of the tasks it can help speed up include writing reports and writing emails.
In some cases, you may be able to use voice recognition software to help you with some commands too. You could speak to your computer and ask it to complete a few tasks for you, while you are doing something else if you are able to multitask. Essentially, you can use voice recognition software in a few different ways, depending on what you need.
Time-tracking apps
Time-tracking apps can help you and your team track how much time is spent on various tasks, and help you find out what areas need improving and what areas need some attention. There are many different variations of these apps out there, with some being about self-input and some taking this data on your behalf.
Some employees may not like time-tracking apps that monitor their screens at all times, so bare that in mind when deciding to use time-tracking apps across a whole department. Otherwise, you could look into the possibility of using time-tracking apps to help you manage your workload and find out exactly what needs to be done.
There are numerous benefits to using time-tracking software, so it could certainly be worth your time to use, at least in the short term. This can help you figure out more about how you work, giving you more insight into your work habits, which will surely serve you well going forward. Try downloading some to find out just how they could work for you, if they do at all.
PDF compression tools
PDF compression tools are useful for many workers operating remotely in an office or from home. Workers favour them because they can optimally reduce the size of your PDF files without reducing the quality. This makes the PDFs easier to send across via email, and will take up less storage on both physical storage devices, and your cloud storage options.
There are many different compression tools out there, so which ones do you choose to use? It comes down to exactly what you’re looking for. You will be able to search online to find PDF tools that allow you to convert and compress various files. You can also find useful tools that can repair broken PDF files.
Essentially, you should know that PDFs will likely be something you use more and more of within the workplace. So any tools that can aid you with how you use and manage PDFs, will be for your benefit. Of course, this is also the case for any such tools that help you manage any files, not just PDFs. Ask other workers in your workplace and friends who work elsewhere what tools they use.
Keyboard shortcuts
If you haven’t yet set up and keyboard shortcuts, then this is something that you should look to change. Keyboard shortcuts will allow you to save time, as they are a quick way to execute certain commands and even open up certain apps. You will essentially be able to bind certain key combinations to do whatever you want.
By memorising keyboard shortcuts for common tasks, such as copy and paste, you will be able to work more efficiently and save time. There are essential keyboard shortcuts that you should know that can save you precious time during worktime. You should know the basics before you start trying to bind your own, especially if it’s going to wipe over some of your pre-existing combinations.
Some of the shortcuts that you may want to map include anything relating to the day-to-day work that you do. It may relate to the apps and tools that you use, or it may refer to the opening of these apps in general! We cannot recommend keyboard shortcuts for your work, as we don’t know what you do! But think about the tasks that take up some time, and how it can be shortened to a press of a few buttons.
Project management apps
Lastly, all workers will benefit from using project management apps. These apps will help you and your team work through a project, from the planning to the execution stage. The way you use this project management app will depend on what sort of projects you’re even running to begin with.
Commonly, these project management apps are used to help delegate roles and responsibilities out, and they are used to help keep track of progress. For example, a project management app may break down targets and goals into deadline dates, allowing you to tick off progress before ultimately completing the entire project.
Again, project management apps will vary, depending on what you’re looking for. It’s worth talking to your colleagues ahead of time, so that you all understand what you’re looking for from a project management app, as what works for one person, may not work for another. Ultimately, it all comes down to what works for the team, so having a play around with a few different apps and experimenting will be in your best interest.
