Oh how we love our technological gadgetry!  It seems like every minute a new product is released that promises us help in getting organized, getting rid of clutter and reducing paperwork.  But I wonder, just how often do these electronic marvels really help us?

Some points to keep in mind about technology:

·        Just because it’s cool & computerized does not necessarily mean it will save you time.

·        It will not get you organized if you aren’t already.

·        It will consume a lot of time to learn how to use.

·        It will consume time (and usually money) to maintain.

Now, I’m not totally discouraging the use of all electronic toys!  I love my computer and all the things it does to help me get organized, stay organized and find & store information.  But, if I weren’t already organized, it would be a mess.

Let me cite the example of someone I know who always tended to be rather disorganized.  On occasion I would have to sit down at his desk and use his computer.  This was always rather a trial for me, the chaos made me crazy!  Then, I would log on to his computer, and guess what?  The contents of his computer were just as chaotic as his desktop.  Interestingly enough, as he has learned to apply principles of organization, both his desk and his computer files have improved.

My point is that you first need to be organized and have systems in place before any gadgetry will be helpful, rather than just another frustration.  Only once you have a working system in place will you be able to determine which technology, if any, will fit into your design and be most effective.