Learn how to build a productivity system that centres around OmniFocus and is tightly integrated with apps for schedule management, planning, note-taking, researching, and more.

It’s no secret that we’re fans of OmniFocus. Many things make OmniFocus uniquely helpful in managing personal tasks. OmniFocus is highly customizable, and since it’s a native app, it’s well integrated on Apple platforms. OmniFocus also sports unique features, such as Review and Forecast, that help foster a proactive approach to life and work.

Beyond OmniFocus

Despite its considerable strengths, OmniFocus isn’t well suited to some activities.

For example, OmniFocus is generally not the best place for higher-level planning. This is where an app such as MindNode or OmniOutliner shines. And OmniFocus isn’t well suited to keeping track of reference information. Instead, using an app designed to be an information repository, such as Apple Notes, DEVONthink, or Craft, makes more sense.

Building the Ultimate Productivity App

This course focuses on developing a productivity system consisting of a collection of best-of-breed apps and services. Think of it as creating the ultimate productivity app by combining the best features of a suite of thoughtfully chosen apps.

This system is most useful when there are quick and convenient ways to navigate between the various components. For example, suppose you have an OmniFocus action prompting you to spend 30 minutes researching a specific topic. In that case, it’s very helpful if you have seamless access to the relevant research material and a place to keep the notes you’ll capture in the process.

Creating a Space for Deep Focus

Once we’ve covered the mechanics of linking apps and services to OmniFocus, we’ll look at various ways to quickly shift into the most relevant context. These strategies are the digital equivalent of clearing everything from your desk except what’s required to work on a specific project or area of life.

For example, suppose you’re working on a novel. In that case, you’ll likely want to have OmniFocus-related projects and actions at the forefront and have convenient access to the app you’re using to write (e.g. Ulysses). To enter a focused, productive state, everything irrelevant to the task at hand must fade into the background.