Lists, boards, cards oh my!
One more issue of productivity software, and then I’ll get back to something more developer specific. However, it is important to consider all aspects of working on development projects and managing your backlog is part of that.
Each service listed today has been a staple in my life at one time or another. I don’t use any of them consistently, and one problem I sometimes have is remembering which tool holds the tasks I set up for any given project. If that sounds like you then perhaps finding one that you like and sticking with it is a good option. Also, I know that there are other similar tools out there with free plans, and I’m happy to do another issue later if people have any favourites that others should know about. However, as I mentioned, these are the ones that I’ve used and can comment on.
Trello
I remember thinking that I couldn’t believe Trello was free back when I originally found it many years ago. There are now team and business versions you can upgrade to, but the main functional concept behind Trello: creating cards which you organize into lists, is free. There are tons of example boards (sets of lists) that demonstrate how you can use Trello to track pretty much anything in your life. For developers, it makes a good Kanban board.
Zenkit
If you like the board and list concept from Trello, Zenkit gives you that. However, what I found appealing about this tool was that it allowed you to work with your data in other forms, from a simple linear list, to a calendar. It is free for personal use with some basic limits on the number of collections and items, but should meet most needs if you like the concept.
WorkFlowy
Workflowy is one which may have fit in better last issue, but I’ve seen the types of things that some people do with it. Plus, I often use it for the same types of things I use Trello and Zenkit for. Specifically tracking and managing software projects. At its core, Workflowy manages lists. Or should I say one giant nested list. It is one of those tools which will either fit the way your mind works or not. I personally quite like it. I use it to plan all of my travel, gift buying list, etc. The free plan is somewhat limited at 100 lists per month, but I’m not sure I ever would have passed that myself.