Beyond Outlook: How Best to Organize Multiple Activities & Projects at Work

[tsunamisurfer]

Though I'm retired (at 38), I find myself doing more and more consulting. My interest is finding the best way to get and stay organized of various deadlines, contacts, processes, etc.

I have MS Outlook 2000 and it's good, but I'm wondering if there's a better, more systematic approach. I'm also familiar with MS Project, but want something suitable for a small home office. I need to keep track of where I am with tasks, getting (and giving) information from/to fellow consultants, maintaining deadlines, etc. For instance, is Act! better than MS Outlook 2000?

Give me your best system--something that's simple, efficient and quickly implemented.

thanks!

[Flymaster]

Well, I was trying to get a job at http://www.groove.net this summer, and failed (they never called back, and never really gave me any hope in the first place). They've come out with a "revolutionary groupware app", according to their press releases. It's been getting a lot of coverage in the local papers because they're such a small local company.

The founder/owner of the company is the guy who invented Lotus Notes, so I'd guess that it's worth a try.

[tsunamisurfer]

Let me elaborate...

When I say I want to coordinate tasks and projects, I am not talking building a nuclear reactor. I mean your standard duties in a high-pressure office.

IOW, tell me what system works best for you in coordinating tasks and deadlines in the work place.