My Digital Life Workflow

Posted by Mac² on 21/01/2010

This is a flow chart of my digital workflow on my Macbook Pro. Basically it allows me to keep files organized and an uncluttered desktop (both essential to my sanity).

Everything revolves around three main folders (the orange squares in the chart) named: Work Zone, ToDo Zone and Out Zone. These can be accessed via Dock (see second image below) and are regularly checked or re-organized according to the workflow. All the other folders within my computer are out of sight; they serve as permanent storing units for future use, but with no immediate usage.

Click on picture to see bigger size.

The Work Zone is easy to understand: all the files or folders that are being used now (i.e. this week).

The ToDo Zone has stuff to be reviewed as soon as I have the time. (Hint: most of the downloaded files get here, to be organized later. Another Hint: I use Hazel to keep this place organized by file type.)

The Out Zone folder is where I place all files or folders that are going to be exported and stored out of the computer, either to an external HD, a DVD or online.

The mail folders in my Dock. Workflow icons by Kate England @ Marmalade Moon.

I’ve been using this workflow for more than a year now and I’m quite happy with it. (Also see here.) Some friends asked me to do a flow chart of it and here it is! Maybe it can tickle you to organize your digital stuff. (Or share with us the process you are already using.)