How to Prioritize Multiple Projects

In the ancient computer that serves as part of the Balkhis archives there is a folder. Its a folder that is opened hundreds of times over the course of a week and within it are projects too numerous to mention. Now this old workhorse of a computer is retiring from the Balkhis line up in the next month or so, but the files within it will be transfered to the new Balkhis computer and on to a set of external hard drives. As many of the files get archived for good, that one folder with active projects will always be used.

Most webmasters have a different mindset then the mainstream population. Us mainstreamers are serial monogamists to the end. We find one interest, one career, one hobby, and we try to do our best at it. When we feel satisfied, we leave that interest behind and pick up a new one. We do this on and on ad nauseam until the end of our lives. Webmasters on the other hand, are project polygamists. You have no idea how many dinner conversations have detailed new ideas for project now and in the future that will be operating parallel to the current set of sites. It is this unique mindset that gives webmasters the potential for success, but keeping all these ideas in order is the real trick to master.

Spitballing:

If you are one of those people who likes to go over your ideas with your friends or family, always carry paper and pen with you. Sometimes the best ideas can come to you at midnight at a Steak and Shake, so make sure you have something to write all your stellar ideas down on, otherwise you will be left with nothing but a faded memory when you try to put your plan into action.

The same goes for conferences or conventions that you attend. When we attended the 2008 Izeafest, Merlin Mann of 43 Folders was incredibly inspiring and had some solid common sense ideas for those who attended. Now, almost a year later, his powerpoint presentation is little more than a blurry image with isolated sound bites, but the notes from his presentation and the ideas it conjured still survive. Putting these paper notes into a three ring binder, an accordion folder or typing them and putting them in a folder for idea fragments could give you a well of ideas to dip into when you have the resources for a new project.

Images:

Designers are notorious for doodling. Having Uzzz Productions in addition of Balkhis means that there are pages and pages of drawings and memory cards full of photos for background images, design concepts or just inspiration. Now depending on your circumstances, it might be beneficial to scan and save all your drawings or to just find a large plastic folder to toss all of your sketches in.

Partially Completed Projects:

When you finally decide to start on a project you know that your timeline is constantly evolving. This is the time when you want to start creating a folder for each of your projects. Include things your drafts, your original ideas, and of course the names of contacts who will aid you along your way. Always remember, keep any copies of contracts you sign “in real life” and it might be prudent to scan a copy into your computer as well.

Remember that a good webmaster is organized and keeps up with their own projects. Make sure to review your list of projects a couple of times a year so that you don’t forget about that little directory or forum that you wanted to start up months ago. Being organized and being able to switch back and forth between multiple projects is an asset that will serve you well now and in the future.