Often, we get so entangled with our professional goals and personal commitments that self-care falls by the wayside. But prioritizing your mental and physical well-being is critical. And taking care of yourself can help you regain the enthusiasm and energy that, perhaps, you’ve felt slipping away.

This blog will explore 10 free templates for self-care plans that you can use to begin a fulfilling journey of wellness. Let’s begin!

What Are Self-Care Templates?

Life has many facets: work, relationships, health, education, and more. Self-care or life-planning templates are frameworks designed to help you look after yourself—mentally, emotionally, and physically—as you lead your life and navigate its trials and joys.

Self-care templates can also serve as valuable tools to inculcate self-discipline in your life. They are customizable blueprints to help you identify signs of stress and create strategies to focus on your inner and outer well-being. They can also help pinpoint areas for improvement, set realistic goals, and track your progress on those goals over time.

What Makes an Effective Self-Care Template?

Since self-care is essential to leading a fulfilled, well-balanced life, you need a self-care template with the following elements:

• Flexible: A self-care plan must adapt to your unique needs and lifestyle, letting you customize it to fit your preferences
• Clear goal-setting: This will help you identify specific areas where you want to improve and establish achievable targets
• Promote balance: Ensure the plan encourages a holistic approach to well-being, covering physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects
• Track progress: Your self-care plan should let you monitor your achievements and make adjustments as needed
• Inspire action: It should motivate you to take consistent steps towards a healthier, happier you

10 Free Self Care Templates

For many of us, self-care can be challenging because we’re consumed by the need to meet our personal and professional responsibilities. But what we should realize is that by failing to put time aside for our well-being—whether that’s through exercise, meditation, spending time with loved ones, or indulging in a cherished hobby—we’re setting ourselves up for an inevitable forced stop.

As they say, you cannot pour from an empty cup. So, just as we leverage self-management skills and discipline to progress professionally, we should invest time in restoring our mental and physical energies for a well-balanced, healthy life.

But good things take time and effort. So here are some pre-built templates you can use to get started and stay on track with your self-care goals.

1. ClickUp Self Care Plan Template

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When you think of self-care, it’s helpful to start with the three aspects that make you, you: mind, body, and spirit. ClickUp’s Self-Care Plan Template will help you manage all three elements, and you can personalize it to fit your unique needs.

With customizable statuses, fields, and views, you can track your progress, set achievable goals, and celebrate your successes. This template can help you:

• Identify which of your life’s aspects need attention and come up with coping strategies
• Set realistic goals using the SMART framework to achieve your targets by breaking them down into actionable steps
• Schedule time for the things that matter, such as your well-being, healthcare practice, quality time with family or friends, or other activities that build positive emotions
• Monitor progress and take control over your life

2. ClickUp Personal Productivity Template

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We often hear about productivity at the workplace, but what about personal productivity? What about that personal passion project that always stays on the backburner due to your work or family commitments? 

To stay organized and productive on these passion projects, consider ClickUp’s Personal Productivity Template. This fully customizable template is designed for individuals, freelancers, and anyone looking to boost efficiency, prioritize tasks, track goals, improve mental health, and streamline their workflow.

This to-do list template lets you organize and plan your personal tasks, enabling you to:

• Set achievable goals and develop a plan to reach them
• Maximize the time you have
• Prioritize tasks and manage your workload more effectively
• Stay focused and motivated on the tasks that are most important to you

3. ClickUp Personal Time Management Sheet Template

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What’s the first thing you do when you wake up? Is it exercise, checking your email, meditation, or opening social media? Right from the time you open your eyes, it’s important to plan your morning routine, and all the activities that follow it to set the right tone for the day.

Master the day using ClickUp’s Personal Time Management Sheet Template to plan your professional and personal life. Besides being a planner, this template is a strategic tool for maximizing productivity and achieving your goals. 

From daily routines to long-term projects, this template lets you prioritize tasks, track progress, and stay focused to take control of your schedule and unlock your full potential. Say goodbye to time-wasting activities and hello to a self-care routine that will help you lead an efficient and fulfilling life. 

4. ClickUp Personal Habit Tracker Template

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ClickUp Personal Habit Tracker Template is a great option for building excellent habits and staying on track despite the challenges of everyday life.

We are the sum of our daily habits. And this template gives you customizable tracking options and progress visualizations for unparalleled insights into the habits you practice each day. Whether you’re aiming for a healthier body, more nutritious meals, or improved productivity, the template provides the structure you need to turn good intentions into concrete results.

Track your day-to-day goals by:

• Creating tasks with custom statuses, including Open and Complete, and check your progress toward individual goals
• Classifying and including four custom attributes, for example: Walk 10k Steps, Read 15 Pages, and Drink 64oz
• Opening three different views in different ClickUp configurations, like Table, List, and Getting Started Guide
• Enhancing habit tracking with tagging, multiple assignees, priority labels, and nested subtasks

Watch your good habits take root as you visualize your progress and stay accountable. 

5. ClickUp Personal Development Plan Template

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We all know the productive things to do to reach our best selves, but that requires a strong commitment to your personal development. Investing in your personal development helps you grow, form new habits, and become the person you want to be.

ClickUp’s Personal Development Plan Template keeps you organized and focused while pursuing your professional and personal goals. This isn’t just a document; it’s a roadmap filled with self-care practices and a complete care plan. 

Set clear goals, track progress, and celebrate milestones as you embark on a journey of self-improvement. With customizable features and actionable insights, you’ll gain the clarity and motivation you need to achieve your dreams. 

6. ClickUp Meal Planning Template

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Of all the things we do, the food we eat has probably the strongest impact on how we perform and how we feel. Just like you plan your weekly goals to get ahead in life, you need to have a robust plan to ensure you’re getting the nutrition and calories you need. The former cannot exist without the latter.

ClickUp’s Meal Planning Template can be your ultimate kitchen companion, enabling you to plan meals for the entire week or month. This template has everything from crafting detailed shopping lists to tracking nutritional information.

This template helps you list down the ingredients you need to cook and the correct way to prepare them. It can even help you track your calorie count. Kickstart your self-care activities by planning your meals with this template to save time, money, and energy in the kitchen.

7. ClickUp Vacation Planning Template

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Dreaming of relaxing by a sandy beach, enjoying the nightlife in bustling cities, or hiking in the mountains? Vacations are an important part of self-care. They rejuvenate the soul and refresh our perspectives. But planning one can be a pain.

The ClickUp Vacation Planning Template is designed to make your travels stress-free. Use it to create a detailed itinerary, manage all your flight and hotel bookings, check the weather at your destination, decide on what to pack, and get your travel companions, if any, ready and excited for the tip!

With this template, you can:

• Organize all the necessary details like flight information, check-in times, and more
• Keep all your vital details in one place—from passports, visa and insurance information, packing lists to emergency contacts
• Maximize your time at your destination by having a day-to-day itinerary of your activities, including sight-seeing, dining options, and more

This template can act as your travel concierge, guiding you through every step of the planning process. To reduce stress further and ensure a streamlined vacation planning process, utilize AI as your personal assistant to create an itinerary.

8. ClickUp Exercise Log Template

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Regular exercise is a non-negotiable part of any self-care plan.

And if you’re tired of dealing with multiple apps, notes, and fitness trackers, you’ve come to the right place. ClickUp Exercise Log Template can help you declutter your exercise regime, maintain a sustainable fitness routine, and ensure that the only running around you do is physical. 

This comprehensive fitness template lets you log workouts, track progress, monitor sleep, and achieve your fitness goals. Its customizable statuses, fields, and views help you track sets, reps, duration, and more seamlessly.

Additionally, it enables you to configure your exercise schedule based on various parameters in the form of custom fields like session duration, endurance exercise, strength exercise, trainer, calories burned, balance exercise, flexibility exercise, etc. Use them to see your progress and make relevant updates to your workouts.

9. ClickUp Daily Planner Template

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Stephen R. Covey’s best-selling book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, discusses the radical shift you can witness in yourself by building good habits. A famous quote suggests that we “organize and execute around priorities.”

Several planners and task-tracking apps allow you to manage your habits and to-do lists, but what about ensuring that most of our peak productivity time is devoted to high-priority tasks that make us feel fulfilled and accomplished? To manage this, consider ClickUp’s Daily Planner Template. 

This unique template enables you to track all your day-to-day tasks and projects in a single view, helping you to:

• Arrange tasks into categories like Personal, Work, or Goals
• Prioritize tasks depending on their importance and urgency
• Track progress with visuals, including charts and graphs

This lets you stay organized and on track, reduce stress, and improve your time management and project prioritization. It enables you to track progress, set reminders, and celebrate achievements—all in one place.

10. ClickUp Personal Schedule Availability Template

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Some of the world’s most successful and productive people are masters of time management. ClickUp’s Personal Schedule Availability Template can easily help you schedule your activities for the entire day, week, month, and year. 

This personal schedule template lets you balance and schedule the multiple commitments in your life, so you’re left feeling in control and on top of things. Using the template to put into practice effective time management techniques and:

• Visualize your availability and set aside time for self-care each day
• Easily share your calendar with others to find common times
• Set reminders and notifications to ensure that you never miss an important deadline or event
• Customize the template to your unique schedule and preferences

Take control of your schedule and achieve more with less stress.

Accomplish Your Personal Targets Using ClickUp

So, there you have it—a toolkit of templates designed to prioritize self-care and live life to the fullest. These templates give you the structure you need to support your diverse self-care needs, whether that’s improving your physical health, mental well-being, or meeting a long-held personal goal.

How ever you choose to practice self-care, remember that consistency is critical. Start small, with a short mindfulness practice or exercise routine each day, and gradually build upon your successes. With ClickUp as your trusted companion, you’re empowered to create a life you love.

Sign up with ClickUp today to embark on this transformative adventure!

The post 10 Free Self-Care Plan Templates appeared first on ClickUp.

While the features are great, many Slack users face trouble using a microphone, sending messages, or uploading files, which impacts the user experience. 

If you, too, have been experiencing issues with Slack features, this article is for you. We’ve covered the common Slack problems and their solutions in detail. Let’s begin!

Evaluating Slack’s Performance and Stability

Slack has a status page that shows the current Slack system status—whether Slack is up and running or having errors related to connectivity, notifications, messaging, files, or Huddles.  

This page provides updates on Slack’s performance and stability, ongoing service disruptions, and scheduled maintenance.

For instance, on August 7, 2024, some Slack users were unable to access the Slack Desktop app on MacOS. The Slack team shared an update about the incident, explained the reason for the issue, and provided the solution as well.

Similarly, on July 29, 2024, some users were unable to load and execute workflows via buttons.

If you’re still having trouble connecting to Slack, check the status page to quickly confirm whether it’s a widespread network administrator problem or something specific to your connection.

You can also check Slack’s current status on Downdetector, a third-party platform that crowdsources real-time status information about online service outages. By searching ‘Slack’ on Downdetector, you can see a live map of outage reports and check if a significant service disruption is affecting users in your area.

According to Slack’s status page and Downdetector, the common Slack problems are connectivity hiccups, message delivery delays, and workspace loading problems. Keep an eye on these pages to stay up to date about any ongoing common issues in Slack and plan your work effectively.

Common Slack Problems

Delayed messages or connectivity issues on Slack can be frustrating, especially if you are working on urgent tasks. Let’s see how you can resolve them and other Slack challenges. 

1. Problems with microphone usage in Slack

Unable to use the microphone on Slack? You aren’t alone. Many users report audio issues in Slack. Here’s a breakdown of some common microphone problems and solutions:

Incorrect microphone selection

One common reason for microphone issues is that Slack might be using the wrong microphone on your device. 

This is what Slack suggests for setting microphone preferences:

Microphone permissions not granted

If you are facing a similar problem, your computer or operating system might not have granted Slack permission to access your microphone. 

Conflicting applications

Another application running on your device might be using the microphone, causing a conflict with Slack.

2. Issues with Slack connectivity and port problems

Slack relies on ports to connect to its servers and exchange information. Think of ports as numbered doorways on your desktop computer. Different applications use specific ports to connect to the Internet. If you are facing connection issues in Slack, check whether your network is working fine. If yes, check the system settings for ports.

Network issue

Problems with your internet connection or network configuration can also disrupt the communication between your device or browser and Slack’s servers. 

Ports blocked by firewall or security software

Firewalls and security software can sometimes block specific ports to enhance security. This might unintentionally block the ports Slack uses, leading to connectivity issues. 

3. Problems trying to retrieve information within Slack channels

Slack organizes your conversations into dedicated spaces called ‘Channels,’ where you and your team can send messages, share files, and communicate efficiently. However, with hundreds of messages in each channel, finding important information is difficult. 

Slack does have the ‘save for later’ and ‘search within channels’ features, but what if you forget to save for later or don’t remember the exact keywords to search? In such cases, searching messages in Slack channels can be a hassle. Here is what a user thinks about Slack’s search function:

4. Difficulties with Slack’s interactivity parameter

Slack lets users send interactive messages. This means you can perform various actions, such as convert a message into a task, snooze it, and save it for later.

Encountering problems with Slack’s interactivity parameters can feel like navigating a confusing menu at a new restaurant. You know what you want to order (perform an action), but the options don’t seem to translate as intended. 

Interactivity parameters act as the hidden instructions within Slack that dictate how the app responds to your clicks and commands. Sometimes, these instructions can become mixed up, leading to unexpected behavior. You might click a button expecting one action, only to be met with a completely different outcome. 

5. Problems with suggested answers in Slack

The ‘Suggested Answers in Slack’ feature automatically provides relevant information from Guru (a third-party knowledge management tool) within Slack channels. Its purpose is to provide users with quick access to trusted answers without leaving the internal communication flow. But, users often get inaccurate responses.

Here are the challenges users face with suggested answers feature in Slack:

6. Problem of scaling with Slack

While the Slack app is excellent for workplace communication, it might not be compatible with your business when you scale. The platform’s core strength—the ability to facilitate real-time communication—can quickly become its Achilles’ heel when users increase.

As more people join a Slack workspace, the volume of messages inevitably increases. This surge in communication, while essential for collaboration, can also lead to information overload. To manage this influx, teams often resort to creating numerous channels, each dedicated to specific topics or projects. 

While this approach seems logical, it can rapidly spiral into a labyrinth of channels, making it difficult for users to find relevant information or engage in meaningful conversations. The result is a fragmented communication landscape that can hinder productivity and collaboration.

7. Slack notifications won’t go away

We’ve all seen it—that persistent notification icon on the Slack app that just won’t disappear, even though you’ve checked all your messages. 

8. Problems with uploading files

The file unsupported issue is another common issue in Slack. The major challenges with file uploads are:

• File size restrictions: Free Slack plans have limitations on file upload sizes, making it difficult to share large files. This can be particularly annoying for teams dealing with large media files, design assets, or data sets
• Failed uploads: File uploads sometimes get stuck or fail unexpectedly, with error messages that don’t provide clear troubleshooting steps

9. Limited free plan functionality

Slack’s free version provides only basic features like 1:1 huddles and messaging. The top issues with it are:

• Limited app integrations: It allows up to 10 integrations in Slack, hindering workflow automation and customization
• Limited search history: You can access only 90 days’ message history in the free version. For unlimited messaging, you will have to switch to the paid plan
• Limited guest access: The free plan does not allow you to invite guest users to collaborate on projects within the Slack app

Plus, workflow builder to automate repetitive tasks, enhanced data security and protection, and compliance support are not available in Slack’s free version. 

10. Problems with integration overload

While Slack integrates with many other tools and services, having too many integrations can clutter the workspace and contribute to information overload as you receive notifications from all. You may feel overwhelmed by the large number of integrated tools, leading to distraction and inefficiency. It can also complicate the workspace, making it harder to manage tasks.

Overcoming Slack’s Problems With Alternative Tools

While Slack is a great tool for internal and external team communication, it may not help with other business needs, such as efficient project management, task management, goal tracking, and performance monitoring. 

You need to integrate it with other workflow tools or use separate software to manage overall workflow. Plus, with the common connectivity, messaging, and audio issues, you may not always get the best communication experience.

Instead, you can switch to better communication software. Slack alternatives like ClickUp will not just help solve the issues we discussed but also enable end-to-end project management, communication, and team collaboration. 

ClickUp as a Slack alternative

ClickUp is an all-in-one platform that helps you manage all things related to work easily. You can centralize team communication, assign and track tasks, brainstorm ideas with team members, and even use AI to simplify your day-to-day activities. Let’s see how you can use ClickUp.

Communicate in real time

Slack channels often get cluttered with off-topic discussions and bot reminders. Moreover, with multiple channels, important messages often get buried. ClickUp’s Chat View is different—it integrates chat directly into tasks, documents, and projects. You can tag anyone with @mentions and assign comments to keep tasks moving.

With ClickUp Chat View, you can save time on formatting with /Slash Command shortcuts. Embed videos, spreadsheets, and webpages in chats to ensure your teammates have all the information. No more switching between browser tabs for context!

Visualize task progress

Tired of information overload with no actionable insights? Consolidate your team’s progress with ClickUp Dashboards. The drag-and-drop widgets allow you to create customized views that showcase daily tasks, project progress, team workloads, and time spent on projects. The dashboards provide a holistic view of your business activities and enable faster decision-making. 

Share feedback or examples

Slack threads are okay for short messages, but it can be difficult to type long paragraphs explaining a complex concept to a coworker. You can avoid this hassle with ClickUp Clips. 

It helps you create quick screen recordings to explain processes, give task feedback, and share ideas. ClickUp Clips makes communication straightforward and simple, saving you time reading and understanding lengthy messages. 

Get instant answers to queries

Don’t have the time to read an entire conversation? You can simply use ClickUp Brain to get chat summaries. ClickUp Brain also provides quick updates on task progress, project discussions, and personal action items. It automates task planning and data-filling so you can focus better on technical tasks. 

Automate tasks

Sure, you can remember important tasks through pinned messages in the Slack channel, but task automation is much better, right?

With ClickUp Tasks, you can categorize tasks by adding custom tags and statuses and set task types and priority levels. It even supports linking related and dependent tasks for a smooth workflow. 

Convert ideas into action

What happens when a teammate wants to explain a complex idea within Slack? Pure chaos. This is where ClickUp Mind Maps comes in. It helps you break down ideas into actionable items. You can map out workflows, visualize ideas with your team, and tag people to start working on ideas.

Customize your Mind Maps using cascading views, custom colors, and advanced sorting. If you’re stuck somewhere, you can use the Re-Layout option to get the original structure back. 

Increase Work Efficiency with ClickUp

While Slack excels in real-time communication, issues like delayed message delivery, restricted file uploading, visible notification icon even when there are no new messages, and inefficient search features can impact your work. If you are struggling with Slack, it’s time to explore Slack alternatives like ClickUp to reset your workflow and streamline your business operations.

ClickUp shines in fostering a workflow-centric environment. It provides a central hub for team communication and collaboration, task management, project management, brainstorming, goal-setting, and workflow automation.

ClickUp saves you the time and effort required to switch between apps and helps you focus better on your goals. Sign up for free on ClickUp today to improve work efficiency.

The post Common Slack Problems and Their Solutions appeared first on ClickUp.

Experts across industries are constantly working toward improving employee productivity. Organizations are trying modern tooling, automation, generative AI, etc., to support employees. However, adding more tech without fixing underlying behaviors can lead to subpar results.

One of the most commonly used behavioral tactics to achieve peak performance is productivity sprints. But what is a productivity sprint? What makes it tick? How do you implement a productivity sprint?

We have the answers. Start your clocks now!

Understanding Productivity Sprints

Just like the agile development model breaks down large, complex projects into smaller sprints, productivity sprints enhance focus and efficiency by breaking tasks into short, intense bursts of work, followed by brief breaks.

Let’s get into the details.

What are productivity sprints?

A productivity sprint is a short burst of work followed by a shorter break. It is similar to the Pomodoro technique, which recommends 25 minutes of work followed by a five-minute break. 

The only difference is, in a productivity sprint, you choose how long you need to focus and how much of a break you need based on your attention span. Unlike an agile sprint, which is typically two weeks, a productivity sprint can be as long as you need: an hour, a few days, a week, or a month. However, it’s best not to make the sprints too long, because then they might turn counterproductive.

Benefits of productivity sprints

Productivity sprints, just like the sprints scheduled in Scrum events, offer extraordinary benefits to the work at hand. Let’s look at the most significant ones.

Focus

Before the sprint begins, teams collectively make decisions on the tasks to work on, expected outcomes, estimated time, dependencies, and so on. So, a well-designed productivity sprint offers a clear, small, manageable list of deliverables to be completed in a finite timeline. 

This clarity creates the perfect conditions for each individual to focus on one task at a time. Whether they work individually or collaboratively, they know when and where to show up and what to do.

Speed

A sprint is typically a period of undistracted productive time. This means that there are no meetings, team-building activities, urgent issues, etc., that can eat into the schedule. As a result, teams accomplish their tasks at greater speed.

Time management

Sprints are, by their very nature, time-bound. This nature creates a sense of urgency. Team members understand what they need to be doing during their work hours, inspiring them to manage their days effectively.

Resource utilization

As a team, a productivity sprint enables better resource utilization. It helps individuals plan their work based on dependencies and their stage in the workflow.

For instance, a quality analyst can schedule their work in a sprint two days after the developer has completed their work.

Employee energy levels

An important part of each sprint is the break. At the end of an intense bout of work, productivity sprints encourage a break, sometimes for half as much time as the sprint itself.

This gives every team member the time to recoup from the intensity of the work at hand. It acknowledges their efforts and encourages rejuvenation. 

If you’re a software engineer, you’re probably used to sprint planning and Scrum methodology. However, sprints don’t need to be restricted to agile/Scrum. They can be applied to any kind of role or work. Let’s see how.

How to Plan and Execute a Productivity Sprint

The idea of a productivity sprint is not to deliver unreasonably high output for every day of the year. Instead, a good productivity sprint helps you plan your work in the most effective and burnout-free way. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started with the support of a robust project management tool like ClickUp Sprints.

1. Setting clear objectives

Before you start a sprint, you need to know what you want to achieve. Setting the right objectives helps drive all the work done during the sprint in the right direction.

Make your objectives SMART. Set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals. 

Remember that while the best practice for setting goals is to be outcome-oriented, it’s slightly different for productivity sprints. Here, you focus on setting goals for the tasks you need to complete to accomplish your organizational objectives.

For instance, if your goal is to launch a marketing campaign for a new product launch, your SMART goals may be:

• Create a tagline for the campaign by day 2
• Write creative briefs for 20 social media content by day 3
• Finalize the digital advertising budget by day 5

These goals allow you to schedule your work effectively. For instance, you might plan a brainstorming session with the marketing team on day one, 2-3 hours of focus time to write briefs on day two, and 2-3 hours of budgeting time on day five. If you’re struggling with setting goals, ClickUp’s SMART Goals Template can help.

2. Breaking down the goals into specific tasks

Once you have your goals, set up the tasks needed to achieve them. You don’t need to start with a blank slate each time. Try ClickUp’s Agile Sprint Planning Template to set up your team for success.

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While the template offers a structure, defining the tasks and designing the project is on you. So, think about how you’d break down your tasks. For instance, the tasks involved in creating a tagline might be:

• Brainstorming with the creative team
• Creating a list of all possible taglines
• Shortlisting the best taglines
• Experimenting with the application of the tagline across various channels
• Finalizing the tagline

Schedule due dates for each of these activities. With ClickUp Tasks, you have the option of setting up unique tasks or sub-tasks if you prefer. You can also add descriptions, assign users, set deadlines, and collaborate with team members involved in the nested comments. What’s more? Link tasks and manage dependencies, all in one place.

New to sprint planning? No sweat. Choose a sprint planning template that works for you and customize it as you need!

3. Creating a realistic timeline

When teams speak of sprints as intense work, they often assume it means overloading the week with innumerable tasks. On the contrary, a good productivity sprint sets realistic timelines.

Review your backlog: Use ClickUp Lists to gather your backlog items to identify what can reasonably fit into the sprint. You can also customize ClickUp’s Sprint Backlog Template to make this process much faster and more effective.

Estimate times: Within ClickUp Tasks, you can add time estimates for each task and use them to plan the sprint.

Consider workloads: Factor in vacations among your team members, existing commitments, and historical sprint velocity. ClickUp’s Workload view is a great starting point for this.

Look at dependencies: When setting deadlines, consider how tasks interlink with each other. Look through the agile workflow to see what tasks must be completed before the next one starts.

Add buffer time: It’s easy to schedule work back to back, but things can and do go wrong. So, schedule in buffer time. This ensures that the work scheduled in the sprint can be completed no matter what.

4. Preparing the workspace

The primary goal of a productivity sprint is to minimize distractions. The above process eliminates distractions caused by the project planning process. But other distractions, including your own personal ones are your responsibility.

Declutter your physical space and clear unnecessary items off your desk. Put your phone on silent or in focus mode while you work and mute any notifications you don’t need. Then, prepare your workspace for the sprint.

Choose an agile project management view that works for you. ClickUp for Agile teams offers a customizable home view where you can see everything you need to begin your sprint. You can also choose a Calendar view or Board view based on your preference.

5. Executing a productivity sprint

With the setup done, it is time to execute the productivity sprint. All that means is that you’re now going to do as planned.

• Pick up the scheduled tasks
• Go through the brief or description for each task to understand the context completely
• Do deep work on that specific task
• Remember to clock the time you spent on it using ClickUp Time Tracking
• Take a break at the end of the sprint

In case you find yourself unable to complete a task within that sprint as planned, think about how you’d like to proceed. You might add it back to the backlog, reschedule for the next sprint, or move another task in its place.

Make these decisions thoughtfully based on the insights you glean using your product backlog management tools.

6. Utilizing time management techniques

To implement a productivity sprint successfully, it’s wise to rely on the support of some time-tested best practices. Here are some time management techniques to consider.

Pomodoro technique: Do intense work for 25 minutes, followed by a five-minute break. You can also work for 50 minutes and take a ten-minute break. Keep yourself on track with any of the Pomodoro apps available today.

Time-blocking: Divide your day into blocks of time, each dedicated to specific tasks or activities. Combine similar tasks to prevent context switching and improve efficiency. 

Time tracking: Monitor how you spend your time over a day or two to identify time sinks, areas for improvement, and your most productive hours. 

7. Tracking progress and reflecting

Throughout the course of the sprint, track your progress diligently. At the end of the sprint, take time to reflect. Here are some ways you can achieve that.

Standups

Use daily standup meetings to share updates on your team’s progress, discuss completed tasks, and identify blockers. Are some teams working remotely? No problem! Use ClickUp Chat view for an async standup.

You can also automate standup notes using ClickUp Brain, which will collate all updates made on the platform the previous day.

Reports

Create the reports you need with ClickUp Dashboards. Customize the cards and choose the numbers you want to see all in one place. You can also use specific reports like burn up/burn down charts, individual productivity reports, tasks by status, etc., in your sprint review meetings.

Retrospectives

Finally, conduct retrospectives with the team at the end of each sprint. Appreciate the good work, celebrate wins, and explore the challenges you faced during the sprint. The ClickUp Sprint Retrospective Brainstorm Template offers a visual and interactive framework for running your retrospectives.

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Running a retrospective meeting can be hard. Because it involves discussing the emotional aspects of work as well as the professional, and not all of those may be positive. Running these meetings can be a struggle for early-career project managers, but ClickUp is here to help:

These sprint retrospective examples offer some inspiration. And once you feel ready to run your meetings yourself, try these sprint retrospective templates to guide your journey. And to top it off, here’s a bonus read on how sprint reviews differ from retrospectives.

With all that, if implementing a productivity sprint still sounds like a handful, use one of these agile templates to set up the basics.

Best Practices for Successful Sprints

You can see far by standing on the shoulders of giants. So here is some sage wisdom in the form of tried and tested best practices to ease your productivity sprint planning.

Take your breaks: Step away from the desk, stretch, or go for a walk. Avoid screens or social media during breaks for better impact. For longer sprints, take a day off to refresh your mind.

Celebrate: Don’t let success go unappreciated. Celebrate accomplishments with your team. 

Prioritize self-care: Maintain healthy habits like getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals, and exercising regularly.

Communicate: Seek support if you are struggling or feeling overwhelmed. Take advantage of all the benefits and options available to you.

Reflect and learn: Use the reports and retrospectives to reflect. Think about what you could personally improve on. Simulate optimizations for processes to better outcomes. 

On Your Marks, Ready, Set, ClickUp

It’s now accepted as conventional wisdom that it’s better to have highly focused, short periods of work, with breaks in between, than to be partially focused for long periods of time. Whether you’re working individually or as part of a team, sprints are a great way to get work done.

However, implementing a successful sprint needs more than good intentions. It involves clear planning, thoughtful scheduling, forecasting, estimating, and continuous management.

This is where a sprint planning tool like ClickUp can help, with features for every aspect of sprint management, including tasks, timelines, dashboards, communication, automation, and more.

Tailor your sprint to your style with ClickUp. Sign up for free today!

The post How to Plan and Implement a Productive Sprint appeared first on ClickUp.

Whether you’re gearing up for a corporate training session, a business pitch, or a creative showcase, the right template can make all the difference.

You don’t need to stick with plain, default designs or switch to complex software like PowerPoint.

Google Slides offers an array of visually appealing creative themes that are not only professional but also completely free.

In this blog, we’ll share the best free Google Slides theme templates that bring style and professionalism to your business presentations, helping you communicate your ideas effectively and impress your audience.

Let’s get started.

What Makes a Good Google Slides Template?

The best Google Slides template is characterized by these key features:

• Clarity and simplicity: The design should be clean and uncluttered, facilitating easy comprehension of the content
• Consistency: Visual elements like fonts, colors, and layout should be uniform across all slides to maintain a professional look
• Customizability: The template should be flexible, allowing users to adjust colors, fonts, and placement without extensive design skills
• Relevance: The design should be appropriate for the presentation’s purpose, whether it’s for business, education, or creative projects
• Visual appeal: Attractive templates can engage the audience better, using appropriate graphics and color schemes that enhance your business presentation’s theme
• Functionality: It should support various multimedia elements such as images, videos, and charts easily and efficiently
• Compatibility: The template should work seamlessly across different devices and screen sizes, ensuring that formatting remains consistent
• Accessibility: Text and color contrasts should adhere to accessibility standards to be legible for all audience members

Free Google Slides Templates

Let’s explore our curated list of free Google Slides themes and templates perfect for professional, creative, or educational presentations.

1. App Presentation Template by SlideCore

The Creta Free App Presentation Template is designed with precision to showcase your app effectively. An ideal pitch deck template for pitching to stakeholders or demonstrating features to a team, this template contains 30 slides with a sleek 16:9 layout. It features a variety of elements, including drag-and-drop image functionality, device mockup slides, modifiable charts, and a calendar.

Each slide is crafted to ensure optimal user experience and visual appeal, with over 90 editable icons to tailor the presentation to your needs. Fully adaptable and easy to edit, Creta supports both Google Slides and PowerPoint, enhancing its utility for diverse presentation needs.

2. Financial Security Google Slides Template by Slides Carnival

The Financial Security in Retirement Slides Template combines a vibrant orange and gray color scheme with simple geometric designs, which is perfect for business professionals. It includes 22 customizable 16:9 slides with a range of animation and transition features.

This is one of the free templates available for Google Slides, PowerPoint, and Canva. It allows you to communicate complex financial strategies effectively in seminars or client meetings. Its clear and stylish design ensures your key messages stand out, making it an essential tool for anyone discussing retirement planning.

3. University Back to School Slides by Slides Carnival

Kick off the academic year with the University Back to School Newsletter Template. This sleek, minimal geometric design in vibrant green is tailored for clear communication during faculty meetings, academic updates, or student orientations.

With 16 slides covering all possible layouts you might need, this template is an ideal choice for creating professional and engaging academic presentations. It is available in  PowerPoint and Google Slides formats. Start your semester with a polished look that captivates and informs your audience.

4.  Clinical Case Report Template by SlideCore

The Helse Clinical Case Report Presentation Template is meticulously crafted to assist medical professionals in preparing and presenting clinical reports. This specialized template provides a structured layout that includes slides for the case presentation, discussion, existing literature, and conclusions.

It features editable medical icons, infographics, and a clear, readable font, all designed to make your clinical project report both comprehensive and professional. Available for both Google Slides and PowerPoint, this template ensures your findings are presented clearly and effectively. 

5. Architecture Sketch Template by PresentationGo

The Architecture Sketch Template is ideal for professionals in the design and construction industries. This template features dynamic architectural illustrations with sketch-like lines and watercolor effects, creating a professional and inspiring mood.

It includes six detailed slides and additional slides for customizing color and fonts, all easily editable with Slide Master. This elegant template is available for both PowerPoint and Google Slides, making it a versatile choice for architects, urban planners, and real estate experts to showcase their projects.

6. Gaming Template by PresentationGo

GAMING is a free Google Slides template perfect for captivating presentations on the latest gaming technologies or industry trends. It features modern, abstract shapes and a color palette of greens and grays, setting the right tone for gaming-related topics.

This template includes eight editable slide layouts to help you organize your content effectively, from title slides to section headers and a thoughtful closing slide, all designed to support your client presentation goals. It is available in both widescreen and normal formats.

7. Classroom Quiz Education Template by SlidesAI

The Classroom Quiz Education Presentation Template is a free Google Slides template for educators. It’s designed to transform how you engage with students through quizzes and interactive elements that make learning dynamic.

You can customize the images, colors, fonts, etc., to your teaching style and subject matter and watch as it revitalizes your classroom environment.

8. Investor Pitch Google Slides Template by Slideegg

The Investor Pitch Template is a powerhouse for anyone ready to make their business vision a reality. It’s not just a slide deck; it’s a strategic tool designed to help you tell your story, articulate your strategy, and ignite passion for your venture.

This fully customizable template features an engaging orange color theme that makes your content pop. It’s perfect for entrepreneurs and startups aiming to capture the interest of potential investors with a polished and persuasive presentation.

It is available in the 16:9 and 4:3 formats and is compatible with PowerPoint, Google Slides, and Canva.

Limitations of Using Google Slides for Presentations

While Google Slides is a popular choice for creating presentations due to its accessibility and ease of use, some limitations might make it less suitable for certain users. Here are five drawbacks to consider when using Google Slides for your presentations:

• Limited offline functionality: Google Slides’ offline mode lacks real-time collaboration and some multimedia capabilities, which can hinder productivity in areas without internet access
• Potential formatting issues: Importing presentations from other software may result in misalignments and require time-consuming adjustments, posing challenges for those with strict timelines
• Security concerns: As a cloud-based platform, Google Slides’ data storage on external servers raises concerns about privacy and the risk of data breaches, particularly for sensitive information
• Fewer advanced features and customization options: When compared to other presentation software, Google Slides offers fewer sophisticated editing tools. Presentations also have a limited scope of customization. This can be a challenge for those trying to create complex presentations
• Lack of creativity: Google Slides offers a narrow range of themes, styles, colors, layouts, and formatting elements. It can lead to presentations looking a little basic and bland

Alternative Google Slides Templates

Let’s discover a range of amazing templates for various purposes, ensuring that your presentations stand out with style and functionality.

1. ClickUp Presentation Template

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The ClickUp Presentation Template is perfect for those looking to create organized and impactful presentations. It integrates various ClickUp features, such as ClickUp Docs and ClickUp Whiteboards, facilitating a collaborative environment where you can structure your presentations from start to finish seamlessly. With the ClickUp Presentation Template, you can:

• Develop a clear presentation structure from the beginning
• Gather and integrate feedback efficiently before finalizing the presentation
• Track and manage all presentation-related tasks in one centralized place
• Customize the presentation with various statuses and fields to reflect the unique aspects of your project

2. ClickUp Agency/Client Discovery Doc Template

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The ClickUp Agency/Client Discovery Doc Template streamlines the initial stages of client interaction for agencies. This template assists in capturing essential project details during kickoff, aligning both parties’ expectations, and setting the groundwork for successful project delivery. With the ClickUp Agency/Client Discovery Doc Template, you can:

• Collect comprehensive information about the client’s needs, objectives, and target audience
• Ensure all stakeholders are aligned from the outset, preventing misunderstandings
• Clearly outline project scopes, deliverables, and timelines to avoid scope creep
• Facilitate a structured discovery process that enhances client satisfaction and project efficiency

3. ClickUp Project Reporting Template

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The ClickUp Project Reporting Template is ideal for project managers who need to maintain a clear view of project KPIs and overall performance. This template helps you monitor important project elements like tasks, expenses, and action items efficiently. With the ClickUp Project Reporting Template, you can:

• Quickly identify and focus on problem areas requiring attention
• Keep all project stakeholders informed with up-to-date reporting
• Ensure projects stay on budget and meet their deadlines
• Enhance project visibility and transparency across your organization
• Streamline the reporting process to save time and increase productivity

4. ClickUp Elevator Pitch Template

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The ClickUp Elevator Pitch Template helps you craft interesting short speeches that make a big impact. Whether you’re pitching to investors at a networking event or introducing a new product, this template structures your pitch for maximum effect. With this elevator pitch template, you can:

• Articulate your ideas clearly and concisely to capture and retain audience interest
• Organize your key points effectively to ensure your message is coherent and impactful
• Customize the template to fit the specific context of your pitch
• Practice and refine your pitch to deliver it with confidence and precision
• Leverage ClickUp digital tools to collaborate with your team on refining and perfecting the pitch

5. ClickUp Sales Pitch Template

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The ClickUp Sales Pitch Template is a powerful tool for sales teams needing a structured and effective approach to pitch. This template is designed to help you understand customer needs better and tailor your presentations accordingly, ensuring you communicate effectively with potential customers.

Plus, with ClickUp Brain, you can craft your sales pitches more professionally, leveraging intelligent insights for precision and impact. With the ClickUp Sales Pitch Template, you can:

• Understand and address customer needs specifically in your pitches
• Keep track of customer interactions and develop conversations effectively
• Organize your sales strategies and tasks to enhance team productivity
• Deliver compelling pitches that are structured and impactful
• Customize your pitch to fit different customer scenarios and requirements

6. ClickUp Annual One Pager Template

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The ClickUp Annual One Pager Template is essential for anyone looking to stay on top of their annual goals with clarity and efficiency. This template is designed to help you set, track, and manage your goals effectively throughout the year, ensuring that you and your team are always aligned and informed. With the ClickUp Annual One Pager Template, you can:

• Set clear and measurable goals with specific deadlines
• Visualize progress at a glance to keep everyone informed
• Maintain organization and focus across your team’s projects
• Ensure that all stakeholders are aligned with the annual objectives
• Streamline communication and reporting on progress and achievements

7. ClickUp Business Plan Document Template

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The ClickUp Business Plan Document Template is ideal for entrepreneurs looking to structure their business ideas comprehensively. This template is designed to help you align your team, gather all necessary data, and organize your materials effectively. With the ClickUp Business Plan Document Template, you can:

• Create a clear and detailed business plan that aligns your team around a common goal
• Easily gather and manage data to flesh out your business strategies
• Maintain all business planning materials in one centralized location for easy access
• Structure your business ideas into actionable steps, facilitating a smoother startup process

8. ClickUp Board Report Template

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The ClickUp Board Report Template is crafted to help you prepare detailed and clear reports for board meetings. This template ensures that you can present complex data succinctly and effectively, supporting better decision-making. With the ClickUp Board Report Template, you can:

• Organize and present data clearly to keep board members informed
• Provide a comprehensive snapshot of progress and key metrics effortlessly
• Deliver concise overviews of projects or initiatives quickly to save time during meetings
• Ensure your board meetings are efficient, with all necessary data presented clearly

9. ClickUp Report Cover Template

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The ClickUp Report Cover Template is designed to create professional and impactful report covers that can be used for a variety of documents, such as project reports, albums, and book covers. This template allows you to effortlessly design an eye-catching cover that makes your report stand out. With the ClickUp Report Cover Template, you can:

• Design a stylish and modern report cover that enhances the presentation of your document
• Customize fonts and colors to align with your corporate branding or project theme
• Incorporate images or logos to personalize and elevate the visual appeal of your report
• Ensure a professional and polished first impression that reflects the quality of the information contained within

10. ClickUp Data Analysis Findings Template

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The ClickUp Data Analysis Findings Template is a vital tool for businesses looking to derive actionable insights from their data. This template simplifies the process of analyzing and presenting complex data, making it accessible and understandable for all stakeholders. With the ClickUp Data Analysis Findings Template, you can:

• Capture and organize data systematically from various sources to maintain a comprehensive overview
• Utilize powerful visualizations to illustrate data trends and patterns clearly
• Enhance decision-making processes by providing deep insights into customer behaviors and preferences
• Ensure all team members have access to the same data and conclusions, promoting a unified strategy

Maximize Your Impact with ClickUp Templates

Having the right presentation tools is essential for delivering impactful and efficient professional presentations. Whether you’re managing a project, pitching an idea, or analyzing data, the right template can save you hours of work and enhance your effectiveness.

These ClickUp templates are designed to cover every possible use case, ensuring you always have the resources you need to succeed. They help organize information, enhance collaboration, and drive strategic decisions, making them indispensable tools for any professional scenario.

Elevate your presentation game with ClickUp’s versatile templates for seamless project management and reporting.

Sign up with ClickUp today.

The post Free Google Slides Templates for Impactful Presentations appeared first on ClickUp.

Disclaimer: This article is intended to provide information on productivity tools and strategies. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment of any other mental or physical health condition.

Ever get caught in a procrastination spiral, with tasks piling up like a never-ending game of Tetris? It’s like juggling responsibilities, but whenever you think you’ve mastered them, a new distraction sends you back to square one.

But it’s not just the tempting distractions or the endless to-do list causing the chaos. Bad habits—like poor hygiene, procrastination, poor time management, and endless screen time—can sneak in and make everything worse. 

These habits don’t just disrupt your workflow; they can drain your energy, muddle your focus, and overwhelm you. They also create a vicious cycle—as your productivity drops, stress levels rise, making it even harder to escape the cycle.

Let’s discuss the common bad habits impacting your daily life and uncover practical strategies for breaking free and getting back on track.

15 Common Bad Habits Examples

A bad habit is a repetitive behavior that negatively impacts your life, health, or relationships. It’s an action or pattern you find difficult to break, even though you know it’s harmful.

For better understanding, we’ve grouped the 15 common bad habits examples into 6 distinct categories. Each area targets a different behavior, helping you pinpoint and tackle your habits more effectively.

Personal bad habits

1. Criticizing yourself constantly

You’ve put in the hours for a project, and it’s time to hit ‘submit.’ But then that nagging voice in your head starts whispering, “Is this good enough? What if they don’t like it?” 

You find yourself double-checking, then triple-checking. Suddenly, the deadline is looming, and you’re stuck in a loop of self-doubt.

We all have an inner critic who focuses on your every flaw, making you second-guess your choices. This fear of imperfection leads you to avoid risks, shy away from new challenges, and play it safe. Plus, you miss out on opportunities and experience stunted growth.

2. Spending too much time on screens

Scrolling mindlessly on social media apps, like YouTube or Instagram, is another bad habit that can wreck your productivity. 

The endless scrolling and constant notifications make your hours vanish and leave you unproductive. And when you’re glued to your screen before bed, you set yourself up for a rough night’s sleep, leaving you groggy and struggling to focus the following day.

You may also feel inadequate and anxious when comparing yourself to others’ highlight reels. Plus, it impacts your physical health, causing eye strain and poor posture.

Professional bad habits 

3. Handling easy tasks first 

Tackling simple tasks first can be tempting because they’re quick and give a sense of accomplishment. However, it often delays more critical work that needs your complete focus and energy.

For example, you might start your day by replying to emails or organizing your desk—small chores that don’t move your significant projects forward. By the time you get to the high-priority, complex work, you might be low on energy and time, making it harder to complete tasks effectively.

This work habit leads to overdue deadlines and unfinished projects, as the easier, less impactful ones overshadow the essential tasks. 

4. Procrastinating on important tasks 

Putting off tasks and responsibilities until the last minute is one of the most common bad habits that often leads to rushed work and subpar results. What feels like buying yourself some extra time usually ends up in a stressful scramble.

For example, say you have a big presentation due tomorrow. Instead of starting it early, you binge-watch your favorite show. Before you know it, it’s midnight. And now, you’re racing against the clock to put together the final product.

The result? You end up with a lackluster presentation that harms your reputation and effectiveness. It can also erode trust with clients and stakeholders and make you seem unreliable.

5. Neglecting task prioritization 

Poor task prioritization often leads to missed deadlines and inefficiency. It also leaves you overwhelmed and struggling to get things done effectively.

Picture this: You’re launching a new marketing campaign, but instead of nailing down your ad strategy and audience targeting, you get caught up in tweaking your website’s color scheme. 

While focused on perfecting the design details, you miss the opportunity to create a powerful campaign message and optimize your ad spend. As a result, your campaign misses the mark and doesn’t perform as well as it should have. 

Ultimately, it’s not just about missing a deadline—it’s about wasting resources and letting crucial opportunities slip away.

6. Overcommitting yourself 

Taking on too many projects at a time can backfire, leading to burnout and decreased productivity. When you overcommit, you’re stretching your energy and attention too thin, and performing well on anything is tough.

For example, agreeing to take on additional responsibilities at work while juggling a packed schedule can affect the quality of your work and harm your professional reputation. The constant pressure can also take a toll on your mental health, increasing anxiety and reducing your job satisfaction.

Plus, it can mess up your work-life balance and strain personal relationships, reducing time for yourself and loved ones.

7. Failing to set goals 

Ever feel like you’re just running in circles at work? That’s often the result of not setting clear, achievable goals. Without goals, you’re driving without a map—you have no idea where you’re going or how to get there.

For example, if you fail to set specific targets for a project, you end up spending time on unnecessary tasks or getting sidetracked by distractions. This makes it hard to gauge your progress and wastes time and resources. 

You may also feel like you’re working hard without any accomplishments, which can drain your enthusiasm and leave you frustrated.

Poor communication and relationship habits

8. Interrupting others

Frequently cutting people off during conversations is another common bad habit that can hinder effective communication. When you interrupt your teammates, you’re not just being rude—you’re missing out on understanding their viewpoints. 

This can lead to misunderstandings, making you act on half-baked information or decisions that don’t align with the team’s goals. Plus, team members might feel undervalued, frustrated, and less likely to participate in and contribute to discussions, making collaboration harder.     

Over time, this ineffective communication can lower team productivity and create unnecessary tension in work relationships.   

9. Showing a lack of empathy

Picture this: A team member struggles with tasks and deadlines and asks for support. Instead of acknowledging their feelings, you say, “Everyone’s busy. Just manage it like the rest of us.”

Dismissing their struggle will not improve the situation. In fact, it will make them feel ignored and unsupported, lower their morale, and hinder teamwork. 

When people don’t feel valued, they’re less likely to share their ideas, leading to bigger conflicts later on. Worse, they might seek another job with a more supportive environment, jeopardizing your overall project success.

Distracting entertainment and technology habits

10. Tackling multiple tasks at once 

Multitasking might seem like an efficient way to handle a busy schedule, but it’s often counterproductive. When you’re juggling tasks—like answering emails while writing a detailed report—it means you’re not entirely focused on anything, leading to mistakes and slower progress.

For example, if you’re working on a complex project and keep getting interrupted by social media notifications, your quality of work might take a hit because you’re not dedicating enough time or mental energy to each task. Plus, it leads to more mistakes and even more time spent fixing them.

In a nutshell, multitasking can make you feel busy, but it often results in lower productivity and less effective work. 

11. Binge-watching TV shows

Spending hours watching TV shows and movies can easily pull you away from productive activities like catching up on reading, connecting with loved ones, or taking care of yourself.

It’s easy to get engrossed and lose track of time, which doesn’t just sideline your day—it can also leave you mentally drained and lacking motivation. 

For example, if you spend the whole weekend binge-watching a TV series or playing online games, Monday can hit you hard. Instead of feeling rejuvenated, you start the week feeling sluggish and overwhelmed—like you’re setting yourself up for a productivity slump from the get-go.

Health-related bad habits

12. Skipping meals or eating large quantities of junk or highly processed foods

Avoiding meals, especially breakfast, is another bad habit that can tank your energy and focus.

Your body’s been fasting all night and is starving for fuel. By avoiding breakfast or delaying your first meal, you’re asking your body to run on empty. This may make you feel sluggish, irritable, and like you’re dragging through the day. 

Further, eating junk food might seem tempting and give you a quick energy spike. But it’s packed with sugar and unhealthy fats, which can leave you drained and unfocused over the day. Staying sharp is tough when your brain isn’t getting the nutrients it needs to function at its best.

13. Losing out on sleep and exercise

If you’re constantly hitting the sack at random times or tossing and turning all night, it wrecks your physical and mental health and drains your productivity. 

Think about it: if you’re not getting enough sleep, your brain isn’t getting the downtime to recharge. You might find yourself struggling to focus and forget things more often. And in this vicious cycle, you don’t feel motivated to exercise or even go for a walk.

Lack of sleep and a healthy fitness routine can crank up your stress levels, affecting well-being, relationships, and work performance. Moreover, chronic sleep deprivation can increase your risk of depression, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

Medication-related bad habits

14. Practicing polypharmacy

Relying on medication prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional can be an effective way to overcome health issues. But using them without consulting with a doctor can lead to severe mental and physical side effects.

Self-diagnosing and taking meds that are not prescribed or recommended by a medical professional for you may cause a host of negative consequences. Over time, they can also decrease your work performance and overall well-being. 

If your mind and body get stuck in a constant state of coping with the effects and side effects, it will be harder to focus on tasks and stay productive.

15. Neglecting medication schedules 

Missing doses or taking medication at the wrong times can throw off your body’s balance and lead to worsening symptoms, especially for chronic conditions. This, in turn, can cause flare-ups and increased discomfort, affecting productivity and overall well-being.

But the impact isn’t just physical. 

Inconsistent medication can also cause poor mental health, leaving you stressed. It can alter your mood, motivations, and even how you interact with others—adding more complications to your daily life.

5 Effective Ways to Break Bad Habits

With these productivity-crippling bad habits in mind, here are a few ways to break free and boost your efficiency.

1. Set realistic goals 

Have you ever tried quitting a bad habit all at once, only to find yourself back at it in no time? We’ve all been there. 

The trick isn’t going from 0 to 100 overnight—it’s in setting clear, specific, and achievable goals that stick. When you are struggling with consistency or motivation, try beginning with micro-habits. 

For example, aim to read a book for 15 minutes every day. Use this time as a cue to reduce your screen time. Similarly, if you want to stop multitasking at work, dedicate just 20 minutes to one task before taking a break and focusing on something else. 

These small, manageable changes are easier to follow and help you build effective work habits. Every little win boosts your confidence and keeps you on track for more significant changes.

To monitor these goals, ClickUp Goals is your go-to. It allows you to break down large objectives into smaller tasks and milestones, set deadlines, and track your daily achievements in real time.

Whether you’re measuring progress in numbers, tasks, currency, or simple true/false, ClickUp visualizes exactly how close you are to your goals. Plus, the start and due dates for every task help you stay on track. 

2. Prioritize relaxation and sleep 

Stress can trigger old bad habits, and poor sleep messes with your brain’s ability to stick to new, healthier ones. That’s why a relaxed mind and a rested body are key to making lasting changes.

Start with deep breathing—only a few minutes daily can be surprisingly soothing. Meditation can also work wonders to calm your mind. Progressive muscle relaxation, which involves tensing and then relaxing different muscle groups, is another effective way to ease tension.

Further, aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night. To improve sleep quality, set a relaxing bedtime routine, avoid screens before bed, and keep your room cool and dark. Also, a soul-nurturing morning routine sets a positive tone for the day and supports good habits.

To stay on track, use ClickUp’s Calendar View to set specific timelines for your bedtime routine or relaxation practices. 

For example, block out 8 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. for winding down and 10 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. for reading before bed. If plans change, drag and drop these time slots to fit your schedule.

Additionally, customizable ClickUp Reminders alert you across all your devices. For example, set a reminder on your phone to start your relaxation routine at 8 p.m. or get a desktop alert at 10 p.m. to remind you to turn off screens and head to bed. 

This feature helps boost your self-discipline by ensuring you stay on track and never miss a day.

3. Replace a bad habit with a good one

Identify what’s triggering your bad habit—stress, boredom, or your entire morning routine. Then, choose a positive habit to replace it with. 

For instance, if you’re trying to stop snacking on junk food, choose healthier options, like apple slices or a handful of nuts. Or, reduce late-night work sessions with a relaxing evening routine such as reading a book or spending time with loved ones. 

Similarly, if negative self-talk is creeping in after challenging tasks, use positive affirmations or a quick gratitude exercise to turn things around.   

The idea is to start small and gradually integrate new habits into your routine. To make these changes stick: 

• Lean on your family and friends for support—they can offer encouragement and keep you accountable 
• Keep a journal or use daily planner apps to track your progress and adjust your strategies as needed
• Try habit stacking. For instance, spend 15 minutes on a priority task after reading your first email each morning. This links email checking with tackling important work, reducing aimless browsing

To streamline your habit tracking, try ClickUp’s Personal Habit Tracker Template. 

Download This Template

It allows you to:

• Set goals and track your progress to master new habits—whether it’s hitting the gym, getting enough sleep, or staying hydrated
• Track workloads against your daily goals 
• See real-time results, visualize your wins, and spot areas for improvement—so you know exactly where to focus

4. Use habit-tracking apps 

The struggle of ditching bad habits is real, but tracking your progress turns those little steps into significant accomplishments. That’s where habit-tracking apps come in handy. 

Habit tracker apps let you log your daily activities and see how consistently you stick to your new habits. This visual feedback constantly reminds you how far you’ve come and why it’s worth pushing through those challenging moments. 

Plus, seeing those numbers and charts can make the whole process feel less like a grind and more like a game where you win.

In short, these apps act like your personal cheerleader, always cheering you on with reminders that say, “Hey, you’re doing great!”

ClickUp is an excellent habit development tool, giving you a nuanced approach to habit tracking and helping you find ways to boost productivity. With its comprehensive suite of features, you can:

• Create a habit-tracking journal in ClickUp Docs to log your reflections, progress, and challenges. For example, keep a daily record of your workouts or meal plans to review and tweak your approach easily

• Break new habits into subtasks to make them more manageable using ClickUp Tasks. To enhance active listening in meetings, divide meeting preparation into smaller tasks like “create listening notes,” “summarize key points,” “ask clarifying questions,” and “reflect on feedback”

• Monitor the time you spend on each habit, such as journaling or learning new software, with ClickUp Time Tracking. This helps you gauge your commitment and adjust your schedule as needed

• Customize your ClickUp Dashboard with widgets to track progress on habit-related tasks, like completed workout sessions, client follow-ups, or reading schedules. Get rich insights into how you’re progressing and stay motivated

In addition, ClickUp has several useful habit tracker templates to help you easily track your habits, manage work tasks, plan your day, balance family activities, and set career goals. 

Kickstart Better Habits and Boost Productivity with ClickUp

Understanding and breaking bad habits can feel like an uphill battle. But with the right strategies and tools, you can make it happen. It’s all about taking small steps that add up to significant changes.

ClickUp is your ultimate productivity sidekick. From setting up a solid bedtime routine to ditching distractions and replacing old habits with new ones, it makes habit tracking a breeze. 

With ClickUp Goals, you can easily customize your goals to fit your needs—reducing screen time, scheduling medications, or incorporating exercise into your daily routine. Plus, you can stay motivated by seeing your achievements using its real-time time tracking capabilities. 

Interactive dashboards offer a clear view of your progress and help you adjust your strategies as needed. And ClickUp’s comprehensive habit planning templates provide a structured approach to efficiently setting and reaching your goals. 

In a nutshell, ClickUp takes care of the entire process, empowering you to boost productivity and achieve your best. Ready to elevate your routine with ClickUp’s habit-tracking tools? Sign up today and start building new habits effortlessly.

The post 15 Bad Habits Examples That Hinder Your Productivity appeared first on ClickUp.

Whether you’re a meticulous planner, a creative mind with ideas all over the place, or just someone trying to keep track of daily tasks, there’s a note-taking app for you.

Today, we’re taking a closer look at two heavyweights in the note-taking arena: Obsidian and Roam Research. Each has unique strengths and quirks, and choosing between them can be a bit of a puzzle. 

But don’t worry. We’re here to guide you through the Roam Research vs. Obsidian debate. We’ll compare their features, pricing, and differences so that you can find the perfect match for your needs.

What Is Obsidian?

Imagine having a digital notebook that can store your project plans, research ideas, and daily to-do lists all in one place. Obsidian is designed to help you do just that. Unlike other note-taking apps that save your notes online, Obsidian stores everything locally on your device. This gives you full control over your data and allows you to access your notes without an internet connection.

With the Obsidian mobile app, you can take your notes with you wherever you go, ensuring that you always have access to your important information.

Obsidian features

Obsidian is packed with features that make it a favorite among note-taking enthusiasts:

1. Markdown support

Obsidian uses Markdown, a simple text formatting system. This makes writing and organizing your notes straightforward and intuitive. Markdown is widely supported, so your notes can be easily shared or imported into other applications without losing their formatting. This is particularly helpful for users who want to keep their notes accessible and consistent across different platforms.

2. Graph view

One of Obsidian’s standout features is its Graph View. This interactive visual representation shows how your notes are interconnected. It helps you see the big picture and discover relationships between ideas you might have missed.

For example, you can see how notes from a project planning session link to research ideas or how daily to-do lists tie into larger goals. This feature is incredibly useful for visual learners and those who prefer to see their information on a connected web.

3. Community plugins

Obsidian supports a variety of plug-ins developed by its active user community. These plugins allow you to add extra features to the app to suit your specific needs. Whether you need advanced task management, calendar integration, or enhanced graph visualizations, there’s likely a plugin that can help. 

This means you can tailor Obsidian to work precisely how you want, making your note-taking process more efficient and personalized. This level of customization is perfect for those looking for advanced note-taking methods.

4. Local storage

By storing notes locally on your device, Obsidian ensures you have complete control over your data. This is a major advantage for those concerned about privacy, as your notes aren’t stored on external servers.

Local storage also means you can access your notes anytime, anywhere, without an internet connection. This feature is perfect for users who work in environments with limited or no internet access.

Obsidian pricing

• Free forever
• Commercial: $50/user per year

What Is Roam Research?

Roam Research is a note-taking tool designed to help you organize your thoughts in a networked structure. It’s particularly popular among researchers, writers, and anyone who needs to manage complex information. 

Roam stands out with its ability to create a web of interconnected notes, allowing you to see the relationships between different pieces of information at a glance.

Roam Research features

Roam Research offers a range of features that make it a powerful tool for note-taking and knowledge management:

1. Bi-directional linking

Roam’s core feature is its bidirectional linking, which allows you to link notes to one another easily. You can reference other notes directly within your current note, and Roam will automatically create a backlink.

This is incredibly helpful for creating a web of connected information, making it easy to see how your ideas are related and navigate between them. This feature ensures easy linking of ideas and content.

2. Daily notes

Every day, Roam generates a new daily note for you to jot down tasks, ideas, or anything else that comes to mind. This feature helps you keep track of your thoughts on a day-to-day basis and ensures that no idea gets lost. Daily notes are an essential part of effective note-taking strategies.

3. Block references

Roam allows you to reference and reuse individual blocks of text across your notes. This means you can take a paragraph from one note and include it in another without duplicating content.

It’s a powerful feature for keeping your notes organized and ensuring that important information is easily accessible wherever you need it. This flexibility makes Roam a key player among second-brain apps.

4. Plain text files

Roam stores your notes as plain text files, which makes them easy to read, edit, and export. This ensures that your notes are future-proof and can be accessed with any text editor.

It’s a straightforward approach that keeps your information flexible and portable. This simplicity is beneficial for users who prefer note-taking templates.

Roam Research pricing

• Pro: $15/month
• Believer: $500 for 5 years

Obsidian vs. Roam Research: Features Compared

The big difference between Obsidian and Roam Research is how they structure and store your notes. Obsidian saves your notes locally and uses a Markdown file system, while Roam Research focuses on a networked, online-first approach. 

Let’s take a closer look at other key differences between these two note-taking tools:

Now let’s look at these differences in detail:

Feature 1: Markdown support

• Obsidian: Obsidian excels with its Markdown support, allowing you to write and format notes with simple syntax. This makes your notes easy to read and edit, ensuring compatibility with other text editors. For instance, to create a quick checklist, you can use simple Markdown syntax like – [ ] Task to keep things organized. This is perfect for users who prefer a clean, text-based approach to note-taking
• Roam Research: Roam does not support Markdown, which might be a drawback for users who prefer this format for its simplicity and widespread use. Instead, Roam uses its block-based structure, which can be powerful but less straightforward for users accustomed to the Markdown format

Feature 2: Bi-directional linking

• Obsidian: Obsidian’s bi-directional linking lets you create a network of connected notes, making it easy to see relationships and navigate between related ideas. For example, suppose you’re writing a research paper. In that case, you can link notes on different sources, theories, and findings, allowing you to cross-reference and build a comprehensive understanding of your topic easily
• Roam Research: Roam Research is renowned for its bi-directional linking, allowing you to connect notes seamlessly and see backlinks automatically. This feature is particularly useful for users who need to manage complex webs of information, such as researchers or writers, enabling them to keep track of how ideas evolve and interconnect

Feature 3: Graph view

• Obsidian: Obsidian’s Graph View provides a visual representation of your notes and their connections, helping you understand the relationships between different pieces of information. For example, if you’re planning a project, you can use the graph view to visualize how different tasks, resources, and deadlines are interconnected, helping you to see the big picture and identify any gaps or dependencies
• Roam Research: Roam Research also offers a Graph View that shows how your notes are interconnected, but it’s not as visually detailed as Obsidian’s. While useful, Roam’s Graph View may not provide the same level of insight into the structure of your notes

Feature 4: Daily notes

• Obsidian: While Obsidian does not have a built-in daily notes feature, you can create templates or use plugins to achieve a similar effect. For example, you can set up a daily note template that prompts you to record your tasks, thoughts, and key events for the day, helping you maintain a consistent journaling or planning habit
• Roam Research: Roam Research automatically generates a new note daily, making it easy to capture daily tasks and thoughts. This feature is incredibly useful for keeping a daily log of your activities and ideas, ensuring that nothing slips through the cracks

Feature 5: Block references

• Obsidian: Obsidian does not natively support block references, but you can achieve similar functionality through plugins. This means you can link to specific sections or paragraphs within your notes, which can be useful for referencing key points or quotes in different contexts. For example, if you have a key insight in one note, you can reference it in another note without duplicating the content
• Roam Research: Roam’s block references allow you to reuse and reference individual blocks of text across your notes, enhancing flexibility and organization. This feature is compelling for creating dynamic and interconnected documents where you can pull in relevant information from various sources without cluttering your workspace

Obsidian vs. Roam Research on Reddit

We visited Reddit to see where people land on the Obsidian vs. Roam Research debate. When you search for discussions on these two tools, you’ll find a variety of opinions based on users’ personal preferences and needs.

Many users appreciate Obsidian for its customization and control:

This sentiment is shared among Obsidian users who value the ability to tailor the app to their specific workflow. Obsidian stores notes locally and uses plain text files, so you have complete control over your data and can customize the interface with various plugins.

On the other hand, some users prefer Roam Research for its innovative approach to note-taking:

Roam’s block-based structure allows for flexible and dynamic note-taking. Each block can be easily linked, referenced, and manipulated. This feature is particularly appealing to users who need to manage complex, interconnected information and enjoy the fluidity of Roam’s interface.

Overall, the choice between Obsidian and Roam Research often comes down to personal preference and specific needs. Obsidian’s strength lies in its customization and control, while Roam Research excels with its block-based approach and seamless linking capabilities.

Meet ClickUp: The Best Alternative to Obsidian vs. Roam Research

If you’re looking for a note-taking tool that combines the best features of Obsidian and Roam Research, look no further than ClickUp. 

ClickUp offers a comprehensive tool suite to meet all your note-taking and task-management needs. Here’s why ClickUp stands out as the ultimate alternative to Obsidian and Roam Research:

1. ClickUp Notepad

ClickUp Notepad is a versatile tool for quickly jotting down ideas, tasks, and reminders. It’s perfect for capturing fleeting thoughts and keeping your daily notes organized. 

Whether brainstorming for a project or making a quick list, ClickUp Notepad ensures you never lose track of important information. Plus, with seamless integration into your workspace, you can easily convert your notes into tasks and projects.

You can also use the ClickUp Meeting Notes Template to draft meeting agendas or outline class notes. Organize and share your notes efficiently, ensuring everyone is on the same page.

Download This Template

This template ensures your team’s discussions stay focused and organized by providing clear guidelines and structures for capturing agendas, notes, and action items. 

Whether planning a detailed weekly team meeting or a quick daily standup, this template helps make every meeting productive and well-documented.

Another useful notepad template is the ClickUp Class Notes Template. It can help you structure your notes in a clear and organized manner, making them easy to reference and share.

Download This Template

This template is particularly helpful for students. It helps them more efficiently manage cluttered folders, piles of printouts, and misplaced school notes. 

ClickUp’s note-taking template helps students:

• Keep class notes, homework, and useful links all in one location
• Develop a system for schoolwork to enhance study efficiency
• Customize and format templates for each project, class, or semester

2. ClickUp Docs

ClickUp Docs is designed to help you create documents for yourself and collaborate with your peers. It allows you to write, edit, and share documents in real-time, making it an excellent tool for collaborative projects. 

The rich text editor supports various formatting options. You can embed tasks directly into your documents, linking your notes to actionable items.

3. ClickUp Brain

ClickUp Brain, an AI-powered assistant, takes your productivity to the next level by offering intelligent suggestions and automating routine tasks. 

Whether drafting a document, organizing your notes, or planning a project, ClickUp Brain can help facilitate your workflow and ensure nothing falls through the cracks. It’s like having a personal assistant ready to help you manage your tasks more efficiently.

ClickUp Brain also offers an AI Writer for Work that allows users to capture ideas, meeting notes, and research efficiently with AI-assisted note-taking. It can also generate documents like reports, emails, and presentations, saving time with customizable templates and real-time collaboration.

This feature saves time and enhances productivity by automating repetitive tasks and providing valuable insights.

Why ClickUp?

ClickUp integrates the best aspects of Obsidian’s customization and Roam Research’s dynamic linking into a single, powerful platform. 

Here are some additional reasons why ClickUp might be the perfect choice for you:

• Comprehensive task management: Beyond note-taking, ClickUp excels in task management, allowing you to create tasks from your notes, set deadlines, track projects, and collaborate with your team
• Unified workspace: ClickUp combines your notes, tasks, and projects into one seamless workspace, reducing the need to switch between multiple tools
• Customization and flexibility: ClickUp offers a range of templates and customization options, ensuring that your workspace fits your unique needs

Find Your Perfect Note-Taking Tool

Choosing the right note-taking tool depends on your specific needs and preferences. Obsidian and Roam Research each offer unique features that cater to different styles of note-taking and knowledge management. 

However, if you’re looking for a tool that combines the best of both worlds and adds even more functionality, ClickUp is the ultimate solution. 

With features like ClickUp Notepad, ClickUp Docs, and ClickUp AI, you can simplify your workflow, enhance collaboration, and stay organized in one unified platform. Ready to take your note-taking and project management to the next level?

Sign up to ClickUp today and see how it can transform the way you work!

The post Roam Research vs. Obsidian: Which Note-Taking Tool Is Best? appeared first on ClickUp.

What’s your next step? Make a quick checklist.

A checklist is a simple and effective way to manage work. We’re all familiar with the idea of listing down tasks, arranging them in priority order, ticking them off, and marking them complete.

Besides, the checklist also turbo boosts productivity-related positive reinforcement. It initiates a surge of accomplishment as you check off tasks from your list.

There are various tools available in the market to build checklists. Microsoft OneNote offers a straightforward yet powerful way to create and manage checklists. 

In this blog, we will learn how to create a checklist in OneNote and share the details of the bonus tool that can level up your checklists as well as larger task management needs.

Using checklists for data organization and task management

Checklists are a great productivity tool without question. But they offer benefits that extend beyond task completion.

Here’s a quick overview of how they can help you.

1. Useful for organizing information and data points into categories for easy understanding
2. Allows you to prioritize critical tasks so you are always on track with your deliverables
3. Brings in consistency by ensuring action items are completed in the same way every time
4. Streamlines workflows by simplifying large data sets and complex activities
5. Makes it easier to track the progress of your work

Steps to Create Checklists in OneNote

Microsoft OneNote provides a simple way to create and manage important tasks. It offers the fundamental functionalities of checklist creation, such as checkboxes, formatting, and nesting your task list, making it a versatile tool for personal and team use.

Below, we look at a step-by-step guide to creating checklists in OneNote.

Primary method:

Step 1: Start a new page on OneNote. This is where you will create your checklist.

Step 2: On the Home tab, click on the down arrow next to Tags to expand the dropdown menu of formatting options. Select the ‘To Do’ tag to add a check box to your checklist.

Step 3: Click and drag the bottom-right corner of a checkbox to help you accommodate a task. 

Step 4: Fill in the task details in the cell adjacent to the checkbox. Do this for every checkbox, and each to-do item will have a checkbox. 

Alternate method:

Step 1: Type out a list of tasks/items on a new page in OneNote
Step 2: Highlight the items on your list
Step 3: Expand the Tags dropdown menu on the Home tab, and select ‘To Do’ to turn your list into a checklist

That’s an example of how easy it is to create a checklist on Microsoft OneNote.

Drawbacks of Using OneNote for Creating Checklists

While OneNote technically supports creating and managing checklists, it may not be the ideal choice for users who need robust task management capabilities.

Let’s look at some of the limitations of OneNote checklists:

• Limited task management features: OneNote lacks support for advanced task management functionalities, such as assigning user tasks, tracking task progress, setting completion dates, or establishing dependencies between checklist items and project tasks. This makes it challenging to manage complex projects effectively
• No automated reminders: Unlike dedicated task management tools, OneNote does not send reminders or notifications to checklist owners. This can make it harder to deliver urgent tasks and projects on time
• Limited offline functionality: OneNote lets you access a limited set of features in offline mode. It might not be suited for users and teams that work in remote locations or with limited internet connectivity
• Minimal automation: Compared to most task management platforms, OneNote’s to-do list has limited support for automated workflows. Workflows on OneNote need to be set up manually, which is time-consuming and less efficient
• Lacks integration to task management systems: OneNote is part of the MS Office suite and is tightly integrated with other tools in the Office ecosystem. However, the platform falls short when it comes to supporting integrations with other popular task management tools like Asana, ClickUp, Trello etc.

Other Tools for Creating Checklists

Sure, OneNote is a great checklist app, but its features are limited to basic task management. Which, of course, is fine for making simple lists and quick notes.

As for alternatives, you can try to create a checklist in Excel. There are several Excel AI tools that can help automate your entire spreadsheet workflow.

However, when you manage larger projects that entail detailed task planning, prioritization, collaboration, and reporting, you will need a better, interconnected checklist experience. 

This is where ClickUp, an all-in-one productivity platform, shines.

ClickUp: A robust task management tool

ClickUp’s project management platform is a powerful tool to maximize productivity. 

With ClickUp, you no longer have to switch between apps to manage tasks, communicate with your team, or track progress. Features like customizable checklist templates, pre-built automation, and ClickUp’s very own AI, ClickUp Brain, make it easier to manage projects of any size and complexity.

Here’s a quick look at everything you can do with ClickUp.

• Task assignment: Use ClickUp Tasks to break down large activities into multiple tasks and sub-tasks. Assign each task to a specific team member for better accountability
• Scheduling and tracking: Set due dates for every task along with custom task statuses to see if an action item is ‘Open,’ ‘Closed,’ or ‘In-progress’
• Alerts and reminders: Get notified of upcoming deadlines with ClickUp Reminders. Check off completed task reminders or snooze them for later
• View actionable insights: Unlock detailed insights into project progress and team performance with ClickUp Dashboards. Create custom dashboards to view metrics that matter the most to you
• Collaborative features: Collaborate with stakeholders and team members and share real-time updates using the ClickUp Chat View. Use @mentions and comments to leave feedback or assign action items

Advantages of managing checklists in ClickUp

ClickUp Task Checklists provide a simple and user-friendly approach to managing your tasks and projects. The intuitive user interface makes it easy to create to-do lists. 

Here’s a closer look at the advantages of creating and managing checklists in ClickUp:

• Nestable checklists: Create checklists with sub-items for tasks and action items with dependencies
• Drag-and-drop organization: Reorder items in your task list using ClickUp’s simple drag-and-drop feature to reflect changing priorities
• Assign to-do’s: Invite team members to collaborate on tasks by adding assignees to specific tasks and sub-tasks
• Build custom templates: Create a reusable checklist template from scratch, or choose one from a library of pre-built checklist templates when creating a new checklist on ClickUp
• Cross-platform functionality: Access your ClickUp screen from any device—mobile, desktop, or browser tab so you can capture your ideas anywhere, any time
• Automated notifications: Ensure team members stick to deadlines by configuring ‘task due’ notifications 
• Easy note-taking features: Use ClickUp Notepad to organize all your tasks and checklists in a single hub. The built-in rich formatting and editing options allow you to take notes and organize them to suit your preferences best. For instance, use colors to highlight important information and headers to create distinct sections. Order important data points with the help of bullets so that information is easy to navigate

Creating and Managing Checklists in ClickUp

ClickUp’s ease of creating checklists, combined with its support for sophisticated task management use cases, makes it the obvious choice for individuals and teams looking to manage tasks efficiently.

Let’s look at a step-by-step guide on how you can create a ClickUp Task Checklist:

Step 1: Open your task

Go to the existing task within your ClickUp project space where you want to add a new checklist. 

Step 2: Start creating your checklist

Look for the “Action items” tab near the task description or comments section, and click the “+” icon to start building your checklist.

Step 3: Add items to your checklist

On each line of your checklist, type in the details of your action items or tasks that you need to complete, and hit ‘return’ or ‘enter’ to create a checklist item. You can also copy-paste a list of items or tasks, and ClickUp will automatically add a new checklist item for each line.

You can even drag and drop items between different ClickUp checklists.

Step 4: Edit your checklist

Click on the ellipsis (…) next to the checklist’s name to add more tasks or items to your checklist, remove existing items, rename the checklist, or assign the entire checklist to another team member.

Step 5: Assign items to users on your team

Click the ‘assign’ icon (the greyed-out silhouette next to a checklist item) to set users as ‘owners’ responsible for tasks or items. This is a quick and efficient way to distribute tasks and responsibilities within your team. 

Step 6: Nest items

Nesting tasks under a main or ‘parent’ task details all the sub-tasks that need to be completed to accomplish the parent task. You can break a larger, more complex task into smaller, manageable ‘subtasks.’ ClickUp allows the nesting of items up to five levels deep on checklists. 

Step 7: Track the progress of your checklists

On ClickUp’s List view, tasks with an associated checklist indicate the checklist’s completion status next to the task name. This allows you to track the progress of different tasks and identify completed tasks at a glance.

As your projects grow in size and complexity, so too will your task management needs. Fortunately, ClickUp offers advanced features to handle these evolving challenges right out of the box. Discover how ClickUp can help you stay on top of evolving project requirements:

• Recurring checklists: Save time and reduce errors by automating repetitive tasks with recurring checklists. Set them to reappear at regular intervals or based on checklist status changes. For instance, streamline weekly meetings with automatically generated agendas
• Checklist dependencies: Create interconnected workflows by defining dependencies between checklist items and other tasks. You can configure it to move a task from “Ready” to “Final” when “Approval” is complete
• Integrations:  Connect with popular tools like Zoom, GitHub, and Google Drive to automate task management processes

ClickUp Checklist Templates

Some processes of your business processes, such as stakeholder communication, project planning, vendor selection, or change management, have standard protocols.

Instead of creating a checklist from scratch every time, you can use ClickUp Checklist Templates to get started with processes in no time. This way, you can streamline recurring tasks and focus on what matters.

For example, the marketing team can create a recurring checklist template for all the tasks that need to be completed before uploading a blog on WordPress.

Similarly, if you want to create a project to-do list on ClickUp, you can use a task management template to organize your tasks and to-dos.

The ClickUp Project Checklist Template is a beginner-friendly template that covers most of the general requirements for any new project. It provides sections for organizing your tasks and action items.

Download This Template

Use it to:

• Add clear timelines to each task and set due dates to deliver projects according to their deadlines
• Use custom fields to add priority levels to each task. Ensure important activities are closed on time
• Add task dependencies for tasks that can start only after the initiation or completion of another activity
• Increase visibility into deadlines for every task and coordinate important events by using the ClickUp Calendar View

Level up Your Checklists with ClickUp 

Checklists are a simple and efficient way to get started with task management. While you can create checklists on Microsoft OneNote, it is best suited for users whose work is deeply integrated within the MS Office ecosystem. 

By contrast, ClickUp checklists offer a more versatile solution for anyone looking to get started with task management.

Whether it’s the more structured task management templates or fully customizable travel itinerary templates, ClickUp’s user-friendly interface makes creating to-do lists a breeze. 

ClickUp’s reusable checklist templates save time and help maintain consistency on larger projects. They can also be shared with teams to facilitate real-time collaboration on tasks.

Additionally, smart features such as recurring checklists, task dependencies, and automated workflows powered by integrations eliminate repetitive grunt work and boost team productivity.

If you’re curious to know how you can streamline task management with ClickUp’s flexible platform, sign up today for free and learn more!

The post How to Create a Checklist in OneNote appeared first on ClickUp.

In fact, there’s a world of web browsers out there, each with its unique strengths and features.

After extensive hands-on testing and consulting with experts at ClickUp, I’ve compiled a list of the best browsers available today. Some score high on security and privacy, while others top the list on loading speed. I’ve structured my rundown to focus on each browser’s best features, limitations, and pricing. 

Let’s get started!

What Should You Look for in the Best Browsers?

Some of us may remember the days when Internet Explorer (now retired) was the only way to access your favorite website. Today, we’re spoiled for choice. So as you shop around for a web browser, here are some factors to consider:

Performance and speed

A speedy web browser enhances your online experience. Look for browsers that load web pages quickly, scroll smoothly, and use system resources efficiently. I also pay attention to how swiftly I can switch tabs.

Security and privacy

Safety and security are critical factors while browsing. Even a slight compromise here can lead to problems like malware infections, data theft, or even browser hijacking. Look for built-in protections to block unwanted ads and suspicious activity and enable password managers, malware shields, and phishing detectors.

For example, some browsers have a feature that alerts you if a web page looks suspicious or can harm your computer. Browsers with strong privacy controls typically let you manage your preferences around cookies, tracking, and data sharing as well.

User interface

A browser’s user interface (UI) should be intuitive and clear, meaning you can figure out how to use it without much effort and access everything you need at a glance.

Customization options

Who doesn’t love a personalized web browsing experience? Look for web browsers that support layout customization—where you can rearrange toolbars and add your favorite websites to the home page for quick access. 

A great browser also lets you customize its appearance to match your personal style, further enhancing your user experience. 

Task management

Look for a web browser that supports workflow management by adding extensions for to-do lists, time management, project management, and task automation. 

The 10 Best Browsers in 2024

Here are the 10 best browsers, per my research, each designed to improve your online experience:

1. Arc Browser

Arc is my top browser pick for optimizing workflows. I can create different spaces and profiles for work, study, and personal stuff in one browser, which saves me time switching between windows. The split view feature is very helpful when I want to multitask or compare documents. Arc also offers a minimalist look and an intuitive experience. 

The best part about Arc is its search feature, Arc Search. I enter my search query, select Browse for Me, and get a personalized tab with the most relevant answers across the web. I also like how Arc auto-archives old tabs and blocks ads, making it easier for me to focus on my tasks. 

Arc Browser best features

• Create tailored spaces for work and personal projects for an enhanced browsing experience
• Shorten pinned tab names automatically on MacOS for a cleaner look with Arc’s Tidy Tab Titles
• Access frequently visited websites or actions in a jiffy with Arc’s Instant Links feature
• Create a centralized hub for your notes, easels (digital whiteboards), media, and other saved items with Arc’s library   
• Integrate productivity apps like Gmail, Notion, Google Docs, and Outlook Calendar to streamline workflow and improve team collaboration

Arc Browser limitations

• While Arc Browser offers a clean and focused interface, it currently has a smaller extension library than other browsers like Chrome or Firefox. This might limit functionality if you rely heavily on extensions for specific tasks or workspace customization

Arc Browser pricing

• Free Forever

Arc Browser ratings and reviews

• Not enough reviews

2. Mozilla Firefox

Firefox is a trusted browsing companion that adapts smoothly to your search habits. It syncs across devices, so I can view and access all the tabs I have opened on my phone or laptop. I particularly appreciate the Pocket feature, a built-in read-it-later service that saves web pages. It’s like having a personal digital library.

I love the personalization options: I can customize my new tab with my favorite websites or inspirational images.

With a vast extension library and robust security features, Firefox also offers a personalized and secure browsing experience. It groups tabs based on tasks or search queries, pins important tabs, and automatically closes inactive tabs to optimize performance.

Mozilla Firefox best features

• Get enhanced tracking protection in private browsing mode. This offers an extra layer of privacy by deleting browsing history upon closure
• Tailor Firefox to your preferences with various extensions and themes to manage your workload. For instance, web developers can use Stylus to create, edit, and manage CSS stylesheets 
• Edit forms directly in Firefox, saving the time and effort required to print PDFs 

Mozilla Firefox limitations

• Compared to some competitors, Firefox can be more resource-intensive, leading to slower performance on older or less powerful devices

Mozilla Firefox pricing

• Free Forever

Mozilla Firefox ratings and reviews

• G2: 4.4/5 (480+ reviews)

3. Google Chrome

Chrome is one of the most popular browsers in the world today. Its workspaces feature is particularly useful. I particularly love how Chrome syncs my bookmarks, history, and preferences across all my devices and lets me color code tabs, ensuring a consistent experience whether I’m on my laptop, tablet, or smartphone.

I appreciate its task manager, which allows me to monitor and control the resources each tab and extension is using. Another feature that truly stands out is the Omnibox. It’s not just a search bar; it’s a portal to everything. Need to find a website? Type it in. Looking for a specific file on your computer? The Omnibox has you covered.

Chrome best features

• Integrate seamlessly with other Google services (as expected), such as Google Docs and Google Sheets
• Customize and enhance browser functionality with extensions, such as Google Translator and Zoom
• Save addresses and passwords and autofill your details in forms and websites
• Improve the browsing experience with Energy Saver and Memory Saver features

Chrome limitations

• Chrome is known to be resource-heavy, especially when handling numerous tabs or demanding websites. This often results in a slow browsing experience

Chrome pricing

• Free Forever

Chrome ratings and reviews

• Software Advice: 4.8/5 (1400+ ratings)
• GetApp: 4.8/5 (1400+ ratings)

Read More: Choosing a Tech Stack: Examples for Software Teams in 2024

4. Microsoft Edge

Edge has truly surprised me. It’s a far cry from Microsoft’s OG browser from years ago. I’ve been particularly impressed by Edge’s Collections feature, which saves my articles, images, and notes for quick access. Another feature that stood out to me was the Immersive Reader, which simplifies the web layout to improve the online reading experience. 

But what really sets Edge apart is its automation capabilities. The browser anticipates my needs, suggests actions, and completes tasks, reducing my workload. For instance, it automatically fills out forms, suggests relevant search terms, and even offers translation options without me lifting a finger. 

Microsoft Edge best features

• Reduce memory usage with Sleeping Tabs and Efficiency Mode for optimized performance
• Experience better tab management with features like Vertical Tabs, Tab Groups, Collections, and Workspaces
• Use Copilot for AI-powered assistance, Image Creator for generating images, and Designer for creating designs
• Use its Drop feature to share files between your phone and desktop

Microsoft Edge limitations

• It has limited extensions and compatibility issues with certain websites 

Microsoft Edge pricing

• Free Forever

Microsoft Edge ratings and reviews

• Capterra: 4.3/5 (480 ratings)

5. Waterfox

Waterfox is a speedy browser that feels super responsive and efficient. It quickly loads websites and enables smooth tab navigation. I found it particularly good at handling multiple tasks simultaneously, like watching videos without lag and taking notes.

One of its standout features is limited data collection. I can easily browse websites without worrying about my activity being tracked. Waterfox also enhances productivity and makes it easy to focus by creating container tabs for work, shopping, or personal browsing.

Waterfox best features

• Organize different browsing activities (work, shopping, personal) separately and use color codes for easy identification​
• Save and restore your browsing session to complete tasks easily
• Import bookmarks and passwords from other browsers
• Launch private tabs to browse anonymously

Waterfox limitations

• Waterfox web browsers may not always receive security updates as quickly as mainstream browsers, potentially leaving most users vulnerable to newly discovered threats

Waterfox pricing

• Free Forever

Waterfox ratings and reviews

• Not enough reviews

6. DuckDuckGo

DuckDuckGo is the preferred choice for users concerned about privacy and security. It’s a highly secure browser that doesn’t collect or share any personal information, giving me peace of mind while I surf the web. From the moment I open it, I notice a cleaner interface, free from distracting ads and pop-ups.

Its Duck Player lets me watch YouTube videos without being bombarded with ads or having my viewing habits tracked. It also blocks email trackers on websites, saving my inbox from spam messages.

DuckDuckGo best features

• Actively block third-party trackers that attempt to follow your online activity
• Quickly search specific websites directly from DuckDuckGo by using shortcuts (e.g., typing “!a” for Amazon)
• Clear all your tabs and browsing data with one click using the Fire Button

DuckDuckGo limitations

• The browser lacks advanced features and customization options for optimizing workflow

DuckDuckGo pricing

• DuckDuckGo Search: Free
• DuckDuckGo Private Browser: Free
• Privacy Pro: $99.99/year

DuckDuckGo ratings and reviews

• Not enough reviews

7. Safari

Safari, like nearly everything else in the Apple universe, has a clean interface, which gives me a distraction-free browsing experience. One of the key features of Safari is its intelligent tracking prevention, which limits cross-site tracking and protects my privacy. 

I’ve come to rely heavily on the Reading List feature, which allows me to save articles for offline reading later. This is perfect for when I’m traveling or in areas with poor internet connectivity. I also enjoy Safari’s Live Text feature, which lets me copy, translate, and look up text in images.

The Web Apps feature is really useful too, as it helps me save frequently visited websites to the Dock, offering an app-like experience. 

Safari best features

• Take notes directly on a website without switching tabs
• Get advanced tab management capabilities, including the ability to create tab groups
• Access various online privacy features like ‘Hide My Email’ to create unique, random email addresses when signing up for services, preventing spam and protecting your actual email address

Safari limitations

• Safari is available only on Apple devices. Windows or Android users cannot use Safari, limiting its accessibility

Safari pricing

• Free Forever

Safari ratings and reviews

• Capterra: 4.5/5 (200+ reviews)
• G2: 4/5 (200+ reviews)

8. Opera

The Opera browser is another popular tool with cool, user-centric features. Its Speed Dial feature transforms the homepage into a visual dashboard of your favorite websites, eliminating the need to hunt through bookmarks. Plus, Opera offers ‘Flow,’ a feature that seamlessly connects my mobile and desktop versions so I can sync my tabs across devices.

I found Opera’s built-in ad blocker feature super useful. It eliminates distractions and pesky pop-ups. I can also access social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram easily by integrating them into the sidebar of the browser. This helps me keep an eye on my feed, respond to social media messages, or engage with posts from the browser itself. 

Opera best features

• Use the free built-in VPN for browsing without a subscription or login for enhanced privacy and security
• Integrate Aria to access real-time information from the web, generate content based on user requests, and get answers directly from the browser
• Group tabs into separate contexts for better organization and more straightforward navigation between tasks using ‘Tab Islands’
• Get alerts if your clipboard data is altered to protect yourself against clipboard-hijacking malware

Opera limitations

• Opera can slow down your system due to its high resource usage
• Certain websites might not be fully compatible with the Opera browser

Opera pricing

• Free Forever

Opera ratings and reviews

• Capterra: 4.5/5 (182 reviews)

9. Vivaldi

Using the Vivaldi browser feels like having a personal web assistant. I can tweak everything, from its appearance to the way tabs behave. It offers tab management like no other browser on this list. Users can group an unlimited number of tabs into two-level stacks, which makes it easy to sort tabs into subcategories for easy access.

Another thing that stood out for me was its note-taking feature. I can jot down ideas or snippets of information right within the browser, making it a versatile tool for research or planning. I also liked how Vivaldi lets you sync browser settings across all your devices. 

Vivaldi best features

• Make extensive customizations, including themes, tab arrangements, keyboard shortcuts, and more
• Use built-in tools like a note-taking app, email client, calendar, and more for productivity 
• Get a distraction-free reading experience with web panels and a reader view that strips away unnecessary content

Vivaldi limitations

• Its advanced features and complex interface can be overwhelming for some users

Vivaldi pricing

• Free Forever

Vivaldi ratings and reviews

• Capterra: 4.8/5 (40+ reviews)
• Software Advice: 4.8/5 (40+ reviews)

10. Brave

Brave was a refreshing change from the usual browser crowd. Its lightning-fast speed was immediately noticeable because my pages loaded in a snap. Intrusive ads never made their way to me, as Brave has a built-in ad blocker that keeps the clutter away. 

The browser is not just about speed and simplicity, though. Brave’s search engine provides search results without tracking queries. Plus, the browser’s sleek design and intuitive interface make it a joy to use.

Brave best features

• Grant permissions for device access (like microphone or camera) temporarily, such as ‘until I close this site’ or ‘for 24 hours.’
• Access a built-in PDF reader to view documents without additional software
• Block individual elements on a webpage directly from the context menu, enhancing control over your browsing experience

Brave limitations

• Brave’s aggressive ad blocking can sometimes interfere with website functionality. This may cause issues with websites that rely heavily on ads for content or features

Brave pricing

• Free Forever

Brave ratings and reviews

• Capterra: 4.7/5 (300+ reviews)

How Web Browsers Improve Your Workflow

Web browsers have evolved into productivity hubs that give you instant access to email, calendars, project management tools, and research materials.

The best web browsers eliminate the need for constant switching between applications, saving precious time and mental energy. When you reduce the time spent toggling between different programs, you also minimize cognitive load and improve focus. 

If you like using Google Chrome and don’t want to switch to another browser while still improving productivity, you can start with ClickUp, an all-in-one tool for project management, collaboration, and team communication.

I’ve installed ClickUp’s Chrome Extension to stay on top of my tasks and projects directly from my browser. It’s one of the best AI Chrome extensions for creating tasks, attaching email, tracking time spent on different tabs, and taking notes. 

Let’s explore how the ClickUp Chrome Extension helps improve productivity.

Create tasks

I use ClickUp’s Chrome Extension to create tasks directly from my email and websites. I can also set a default location and add the website link directly to a task for better context.

Track time

ClickUp’s Chrome Extension automatically tracks the time spent on each task, so I know exactly where my hours go. There is no more guessing or manual time tracking, which helps me prioritize tasks better. 

Attach emails

Need to save an important email with a task-related discussion? ClickUp’s Chrome Extension helps attach the entire email to a task with a single click. No more copying and pasting! I can even turn emails into new tasks, keeping everything organized in one place.

Web clipper

Found a website you need to bookmark? Just add it to a ClickUp Task or ClickUp Docs with one click. You can even grab screenshots or copy text directly to your task.

Make the Browsing Experience Productive with ClickUp

Browsers like Edge and Safari are helpful, but Google Chrome’s ubiquity and wide integrations give it a distinctive advantage. If you’re looking to improve your productivity on Chrome without switching to a new browser, ClickUp’s Chrome Extension is ideal. From quick task creation to time tracking and website saving, it makes your digital life easier.

Sign up for ClickUp today and see the difference it makes to your browsing experience.

The post 10 Best Web Browsers to Use in 2024 appeared first on ClickUp.

Still, sometimes you just need a happy Thursday pick-me-up because the trains are running late, your favorite coffee shop is closed, or you’re just really not looking forward to the meeting with Alex from finance, where he ruins all good plans citing a “budget crunch.”

That’s where Thursday motivational quotes for work come in. They are the ray of sunshine you need to get through those stormy meetings and come out winning—a friendly reminder that you’re awesome. You can do it. And this, too, shall pass. 

50+ Thursday Motivation Quotes for Work and Personal Life

We just so happen to have gathered a bunch of quotes to lift you up, including Thursday morning motivational quotes for work and funny Thursday quotes for work to get your day off to a great start. 

Motivational Thursday quotes

Thursday can feel like the longest stretch of the week, with Friday just out of reach. But helping your team stay motivated by creating healthy work habits for a positive life is the key to finishing strong!

Positive Thursday quotes

It’s easy to hit a midweek slump, but tolerable Thursdays can also be a reminder that the weekend is just around the corner. Keep spirits up and empower your team to be their own managers. 

Thankful Thursday quotes

Thursday mornings are a great time to appreciate the little wins and express gratitude. Remind your team how valued they are with these awesome quotes on teamwork.

Thursday Morning quotes

Creating And Sharing Thursday Motivation Quotes 

Now that you’re equipped with some inspirational Thursday quotes, why not spread the love among your colleagues and teams and create a positive work environment?

You can even use ClickUp Brain to draft thoughtful Thursday quotes, especially for your team. 

But wait, doesn’t the spark of motivation ignite real productivity? We’d like to think so! That’s why we’ve got a ready list of templates to help get you on your way when Monday rolls around. 

Using ClickUp templates to boost productivity

1. The ClickUp Personal Productivity Template

Download This Template

This customizable template lets you organize, prioritize, and efficiently track your tasks. You can set recurring tasks to remind you to take breaks, helping you maintain steady productivity. 

2. The ClickUp for Productivity Template

Download This Template

This beginner-friendly template is designed to balance work and personal life. It has 7 views, 30 statuses, and automated custom field updates to simplify task management. 

3. The ClickUp Personal Productivity Report Template

Download This Template

Using this template, monitor time spent on tasks, spot improvement areas, and generate progress reports to track your goals. 

Use the Calendar View to plan and prioritize tasks, the Billing Table to track payments, the Priority List to organize tasks by importance, and the Getting Started Guide to create a custom productivity plan for yourself.

Do you know what’s another fun team-building activity? A Quote-off! Ask your team to come up with their best motivational quote, and the best one will be treated to lunch! 

You can use ClickUp Docs to track all the awesome quotes your team comes up with. With collaborative editing, everyone will know when the other person is writing, so you won’t accidentally edit each other out. 

And if you succeed with this little team-building activity (let’s be honest, you probably will, you superstar), why not get a head start on that next project and put your productivity tools to good use? 

Tools like ClickUp’s Time Tracking and ClickUp Tasks will make sure your team gets enough time with their loved ones. After all, nothing surpasses the impact of motivational quotes than a healthy work-life balance.

Finally, if you’re looking for an effective way to communicate quickly with your team, use communication apps, such as ClickUp Chat. These apps let you communicate and collaborate with your team in real time and boost productivity by mitigating the need for those ‘quick meetings’.

Here’s hoping this curated list of Thursday motivational quotes for work helps you and your team create a nurturing work environment and get through a long week. 

If none of them feels quite up your alley, we’re sure this one will:

And don’t forget to sign up for ClickUp for that extra shot of productivity!

The post 50+ Thursday Motivational Quotes for Work to Boost Team Morale appeared first on ClickUp.

It depends on variable factors such as the criticality of the issue, the service rep handling the ticket, and whether resolution requires coordination with other teams like product and engineering. 

That said, if the customer service workflow were to follow a standardized process, it would offset or minimize the impact of these variables and solve customer service challenges. 

To make your job easier as a customer service manager, you can implement a customer service checklist. 

In this blog, we’ll look at creating a customer service checklist that can help optimize your procedures and deliver flawless, consistent experiences.

What is a Customer Service Checklist

A customer service checklist specifies customer service standards with rules, guidelines, and best practices for the service team to deliver the ultimate customer experience. It lists all the resources you need, the steps you need to follow, and the sequence in which these steps should be followed.

Why is a customer service checklist necessary?

• The checklist becomes a template for everyone on the team, eliminating guesswork when helping customers or resolving queries
• With a repeatable process, you will minimize human error, deliver a more predictable customer experience, and achieve consistent customer satisfaction
• The checklist helps new members joining the team ramp up faster and handle customers more confidently, as there is a tried and tested process 
• When everyone follows a standard workflow, the customer service manager can objectively evaluate the team’s performance using customer experience KPIs 

The Complete Customer Service Checklist

A checklist can act as the guiding star to help your service team navigate their customer interactions with confidence and clarity. Here’s a 15-point customer service checklist that your team can get started with:

1. Make your support team easily accessible

When customers seek out your support team, they likely have a pressing issue that needs to be resolved immediately. A delay can lead to communication gaps and unnecessary confusion. 

Let’s not forget that the primary objective of your customer service team is to solve customer problems. You can only do that when customers can reach you.  

How can you make your customer service team more accessible?

• Publish your service team’s contact information (email, phone number) on your website, within the product, and on your social media handles
• Implement a chatbot on your website to help customers get answers to entry-level queries
• Route queries to the right customer service representatives for quicker resolutions

2. Set clear service expectations

Customer interactions can be mixed. Setting realistic customer expectations is necessary to ensure a high-quality customer service experience. Define a benchmark using a customer service checklist template and train your team to deliver accordingly.

How can you define clear service expectations?

• Be transparent about your availability, response times, and the kind of queries you commit to resolve via customer service
• Follow a customer service checklist to give your team clarity on protocols and responsibilities

3. Provide options for self-service

Not all customers like to wait for a response from the customer service team. 

You can expect tech-savvy customers to go the DIY route and look to resolve their queries on their own. 

This can be a win-win—customers get a quick resolution through self-service, which maintains customer satisfaction, while the customer service team can focus on solving critical issues.

How can you provide self-service options to customers?

• Build a comprehensive knowledge base on your website with an updated repository of help center articles
• Configure your chatbot to handle commonly asked customer queries

At ClickUp, we have a knowledge base repository for internal and customer-facing purposes. 

4. Prepare canned responses for recurring queries

Some customers prefer to contact customer service for common queries. Such tickets can increase your team’s workload and stretch their bandwidth. 

You can pre-empt such situations by documenting recurring queries and training your team on the appropriate canned response for each query. This can help your team address a high volume of tickets quickly. 

How can you handle recurring queries?

• Document recurring customer concerns and canned responses to train your chatbot
• Publish this document in the resources repository on your customer service or ticketing platform 
• Train new support reps on recurring queries as part of their onboarding

5. Know your product inside out

Customers will expect your customer service team to be the subject matter experts about your product or service. 

Only if they have comprehensive knowledge about the product (right down to its nuts and bolts) will they be able to provide satisfactory answers to customer queries, building credibility and earning your customers’ trust. 

Service reps who are well-versed in the product will be able to understand the customer’s problem accurately and resolve it quickly. On the contrary, service tickets can get dragged out for days if the rep does not have the right product or service knowledge, leaving the customer frustrated.

How can your customer service team build product expertise?

• Conduct regular training sessions on the product’s latest features and capabilities for your customer service team
• Build a knowledge base using ClickUp Docs with a repository of pre-recorded training sessions that service reps can use to get a refresher on the existing capabilities of the product

6. Listen more than you speak

If you do not investigate the issue’s core, any solution you implement will be like applying a band-aid to a deep cut. It will only cover the problem at the surface level without addressing the wound underneath.

Worse, a temporary fix might cause the issue to rear its head again, requiring another support conversation for the same or similar issue.

Solutions driven by a deep understanding of the problem will provide a lasting resolution, avoid back-and-forth with the customer, and ensure greater satisfaction with the customer service process.

Here are a few good tips to follow

• Ask the right questions during support conversations. This helps uncover minute details about the customers’ problems
• Take detailed notes to capture key details from support conversations. Customers appreciate it when reps demonstrate a deep understanding of their issues

7. Empathize with your customer’s needs

A key element of excellent customer service is making the customer feel ‘I’m in safe hands.’ Service reps need to demonstrate empathy and understanding of the customer’s predicament while managing client expectations. 

Showing genuine concern instead of cold and robotic responses can turn support conversations into memorable customer experiences. This goes a long way toward building customer loyalty and cementing long-term relationships, turning more customers into your brand advocates.

Tips to express empathy in customer service interactions 

• It could be as simple as acknowledging the issue the customer is contacting you about 
• Be transparent about the timelines and let them know you’re taking serious steps to resolve their issue 
• Set expectations clearly, early, and at multiple points throughout the customer interaction 
• For proactive communication, set up a follow-up cadence and let them know if anything with their request changes 

8. Minimize response time

One of the pillars of good customer service is responding to customers as quickly as possible. 

It is crucial to have a reliable strategy to respond to customer inquiries in the shortest time possible. An unresolved issue could have stalled work at the customer’s end, and delayed responses can exacerbate customer frustrations.

In extreme cases, a pattern of delayed support responses can lead to customer churn.

How can you minimize response time?

• Use templates for customer service workflows wherever possible: email responses, task checklists, bug reporting, bug resolution, etc 
• Measure the average response time to support tickets across your team and make it a KPI for service reps
• Use the industry average response time as a benchmark, and set a target to bring your team’s response time under the industry average over the next 1-2 quarters
• New-age e-commerce startups have set a high benchmark for customer service with 24×7 availability and lightning-fast responses. Customer expectations are higher than before. Invest in AI-powered chatbots that can instantly reply to customer queries

9. Maintain patience and composure

Customer interactions can often go sideways. The key to delivering good customer service is knowing how to keep a cool head. Instead of getting impatient, try to understand why your customers are upset—listen actively to what they’re saying. 

Train customer support agents to be active listeners and encourage them to ask clarifying questions; this will reduce any chances of miscommunication and improve customer satisfaction.

Tips for handling customer interactions

• Listen to your customer without rushing to provide a solution, and ask questions to ensure you understand their concerns
• Keep your language professional and tone respectful; staying calm will keep the situation from escalating
• To boost your team’s productivity, consider using AI tools for customer service

10. Keep your customers in the loop

Communication gaps can derail good customer service. Be transparent while speaking to customers, ensuring they understand the resolution and when it will be solved. Keep them informed at every stage of the resolution process. This approach can strengthen customer relationships, resulting in a great customer experience.

Tips for consistent communication with customers:

• Employ effective customer communication management techniques to ensure consistency and continuity at every step of the customer journey
• Use ClickUp Automation to create custom workflows for providing timely updates to customers on their status changes 

11. Follow up on time every time

Responding fast to a customer query is important. But remember that this is not merely a one-time obligation when the ticket is raised. Treat every customer touchpoint as an opportunity to delight and impress. Timely follow-ups need to be your mantra right throughout the ticket resolution process. 

Sometimes, after you resolve the issue, the communication with the customer can go cold. Even then, it is important to follow up with your customers to confirm that you’ve resolved the query to their satisfaction. Such situations provide opportunities to get valuable customer feedback.

How to follow up with customers?

• Send survey and feedback forms to your customers to gain insights into their experience with your product or service
• Leverage your knowledge base to send them product guides, best practices, and how-to guides for features you think will be helpful
• Provide proactive customer service and ask users if they need assistance after they have made a purchase

Download This Template

12. Suggest product solutions for customer needs

When you work closely with a customer to fix an issue, strive to better understand their business use case and workflows. Combine your product knowledge and understanding of the customer’s business to pitch additional features and modules. 

A collaborative customer service strategy will not only create upsell opportunities but will also be an opportunity to show that you go above and beyond. When you proactively suggest solutions that add more value to your customer’s business, you can turn customers into advocates for your brand.

How to better understand your customers and their needs?

• Create a centralized database of each customer’s industry, demographics, purchase intent, etc., to gain additional insights into their concerns
• Use AI-powered customer service tools to analyze interactions across channels and provide relevant information

13. Seek customer feedback regularly

Customer service is arguably the best avenue for a business to demonstrate its customer-centricity. Every customer interaction can be a goldmine of insights—feature suggestions, potential enhancements, user preferences, etc.

There’s perhaps no better way to grow a business continuously than to listen to and learn directly from your customers. When you ask your customers for feedback, they will know their voice matters and is valued.

How to gather customer feedback?

Collecting input from consumers, users, and partners is critical for enhancing your products and services. But getting that feedback can be challenging. ClickUp’s Feedback Form Template will help you streamline the process and make the most of each comment.

Download This Template

ClickUp’s Feedback Form Template can help you:

• Personalize your feedback collection and view all input in one location, allowing you to enhance your products and services
• Design surveys that are suited to your client’s individual needs and gain relevant information to steer product decisions
• Allow customers to express their thoughts and concerns and quickly evaluate responses to uncover trends and insights
• Assess the scope for improvement and design tailored strategies that address them

14. Focus on continuous improvement

Your customer service team is on the front lines of representing your business. As customers and customer needs evolve, your customer service team needs to constantly up their game as well. 

Establish metrics to evaluate the customer service performance—the volume of tickets handled, ticket resolution time, average customer feedback, etc. This will remove subjectivity when giving feedback to your team members. 

Tips for continuous service improvement:

• Use dedicated customer success software with customer journey mapping and advanced reporting and analytics tools
• Study the practices of your best reps, incorporate them into your training and onboarding program, and coach your team to improve their performance

Creating Checklists on ClickUp

If you want to know what tool to use to create your customer service checklist, look no further than ClickUp. 

ClickUp’s CRM helps teams organize their work, enhance productivity, and achieve customer service goals efficiently. You can customize ClickUp for customer service workflows—enabling your customer service agents and reps to:

• Break down complex support tickets into manageable tasks and sub-tasks 
• Assigning them to users across teams
• Discuss customer issues through comments

This helps your customer service team improve customer-centricity and deliver exceptional experiences when resolving customer queries.

The ease and simplicity of ClickUp Checklist Templates make them the obvious choice for customer service teams to manage tasks efficiently.

Let’s look at a step-by-step guide on how you can create a ClickUp Task Checklist:

Step 1: Open your task

Go to the existing task within your project space on ClickUp where you want to add your checklist. 

Step 2: Start creating your checklist

Once you find the “Action items” tab near the task description or comments section, click the “+” icon to create your checklist.

Step 3: Add items to your checklist

To add items to your checklist, type in each action item or task you must complete. You can also directly paste a list of items/tasks, and ClickUp will automatically add a new item for each line to your checklist. ClickUp even allows you to drag and drop items between different checklists.

Step 4: Edit your checklist

By clicking on the ellipsis (…) next to the checklist’s name, you can add more items, remove existing items from the list, rename the checklist, or assign the entire checklist to another team member.

Step 5: Assign items to users on your team

You can assign users responsible for each item (or ‘owners’) on your checklist by clicking the ‘assign’ icon (usually depicted by a greyed-out silhouette) next to the item. This is an efficient way of distributing tasks within a team.

Step 6: Nest items

Nesting tasks under a main or ‘parent’ task allows you to break a larger, more complex task into smaller, manageable ‘subtasks.’ You can nest items up to five levels deep on ClickUp for detailed organization.

Step 7: Track the progress of your checklists

On ClickUp’s List view, tasks that have an associated checklist show an indicator of the checklist’s completion status next to the task name. This allows you to track the progress of different tasks and identify completed tasks at a glance.

Once your checklist is ready, you can easily streamline your customer communication through ClickUp’s Integrations with tools your customer support team uses, including Slack, Microsoft Teams, HubSpot, Google Drive, Microsoft Teams, Outlook, and more.

If you’re new to ClickUp and want to get started with setting up and managing your first project, here’s a checklist template created by ClickUp that you can simply plug and play:

ClickUp Project Checklist Template

The ClickUp Project Checklist Template is a beginner-friendly template that covers all the general requirements for a new project. You can set up a new project on ClickUp from scratch in minutes using the task-subtask structure. 

Download This Template

Here’s how you can kickstart and execute a project:

• Invite your team members to the ClickUp project
• When the entire team is in the same workspace, you can assign tasks to your team members
• Make sure your team is executing tasks in the correct order, and discuss updates/feedback through chat and comments
• Monitor the overall progress of the project using Gantt Chart View
• Identify and resolve bottlenecks on time and ensure the project meets its deadlines

Deliver exceptional customer service experiences using ClickUp CRM

A collaborative CRM can facilitate seamless communication and data sharing between multiple departments in your organization. With ClickUp’s Customer Service Project Management Software, you can collaborate with users from across teams, assign tasks, track deadlines, and resolve customer complaints on time. 

The idea is to start with the right template, which will cut through the clutter of handling tickets, chats, and assistance simultaneously—and help you focus on your customers and their issues.

ClickUp Customer Service Management Template

ClickUp’s Customer Service Management Template is a great resource for your customer service team as it enables them to:

• Manage clients, feedback, and priorities with professional efficiency
• Keep track of your clients, partners, and satisfaction ratings in one location
• Collaborate with teams and departments on tickets, issues, and solutions

Download This Template

This template simplifies the customer support experience through its user-friendly views, forms, and customizable features such as:

• List view: Access each ticket by type and escalation in a configurable list 
• Board view: Sort and monitor each ticket’s progress using a drag-and-drop Kanban board
• Form View: Keep your customer service request forms on hand and ready to be delivered in seconds
• Doc View: You can refer to the instructions for using this template view anytime

Efficient customer service management can be among the most effective client retention strategies. By addressing customer issues on time, you can become a valuable partner to your customers, earn their trust, and build long-term relationships.

Transform Your Customer Service Delivery with ClickUp

A strategic focus on customer service can turn it into a true differentiator for your business.

Standardizing your customer service processes can help you deliver a consistent experience to every customer. Following a customer service checklist is the perfect way to standardize your customer service processes.

A dedicated project management tool like ClickUp, with its depth of features and pre-built templates, can help your customer service reps deliver a delightful experience for each customer. 

Sign up on ClickUp for free to experience the benefits.

The post How to Create a Customer Service Checklist (With Templates) appeared first on ClickUp.

Clearly, the right models and tools play an outsized role in creating ground-breaking ideas and unlocking creativity. An effective visualization framework for brainstorming ideas is the circle map method—a thinking map that helps you organize your thoughts and explore associated connections.

One of the best ways to get started with this method is to use pre-designed frameworks, aka circle map templates.

This article will cover all you need to know about circle map templates. We’ll also share five easy-to-use templates to kick off your creative endeavors.

What are Circle Map Templates?

Circle map templates can be digital or printable, making them versatile for different brainstorming settings. Circle maps are also one of the best ideation techniques available to businesses.

What Makes a Good Circle Map Template?

Here are the key attributes of a good circle map template:

• Clarity: A good circle map template should be straightforward and easy to understand. Clear labels and instructions help users quickly grasp how to use the template without confusion
• Flexibility: The template should be adaptable to various topics. No matter how different the projects and contexts are, users should be able to modify them to suit their needs
• Design: The template’s layout should be visually appealing, organized, and professional. This means having enough space to accommodate multiple concepts, which encourages engagement and meaningful brainstorming
• Compatibility: A good template should be available in multiple formats, including digital variations such as editable PDFs or Word documents, and printable versions
• Shareability: The template should be easy to distribute, share, and edit. This feature is crucial for boosting collaboration among team members

ClickUp’s ideation tools and project-tracking features help with brainstorming and ideation right from the get-go. Here are some of its top circle map templates.

Free Circle Map Templates

1. Circle Map Template by ClickUp

Download This Template

Say goodbye to brainstorming roadblocks with the ClickUp Circle Map Template. From identifying relationships between ideas and concepts to creating tasks, this user-friendly template is perfect for those who are new to circle maps.

The template contains ample space for you and your team to focus on each idea and elaborate on your concepts. You can also group ideas together to draw connections and visualize new concepts.

The ClickUp Circle Map Template features custom views and fields to get started, so you can adapt the circle map to your unique needs. Moreover, use instant tagging, task delegation, nested subtasks, and priority labels for an outcome-driven brainstorming process.

You can integrate the template with ClickUp Chat View to help your team share updates and suggestions through instant messaging. You can also link the template with ClickUp Goals, a goal-management feature, to ensure your ideas are executed after the brainstorming session.

As an advanced project management platform, ClickUp allows you to introduce AI into brainstorming with its dedicated tool, ClickUp Brain. 

ClickUp Brain is the perfect AI partner to get those creative juices flowing. As an AI knowledge assistant, Brain also provides instant summaries, the latest progress updates, and even unique idea prompts.

2. ClickUp Blank Whiteboard Template

Download This Template

Use the ClickUp Blank Whiteboard Template if your team needs a fresh, mind-clearing space for quality brainstorming.

This template transforms into a robust circle map canvas with just a few clicks, allowing you to visualize your ideas with stunning clarity. Once you’ve placed your central topic at the center, branch outward to capture related concepts.

This Clickup Whiteboard template removes the limitations of traditional brainstorming and its dynamic circle map lets you freely explore and organize your ideas. You can also track your ideas under two statuses: open and complete.

As a template that focuses on flexibility, this ClickUp template makes it easy to break down complex thoughts into a clear and interconnected visual map.

3. ClickUp Bubble Map Template

Download This Template

With the ClickUp Bubble Map Template, generate, simplify, and connect even the most complex ideas effortlessly.

The framework centers the main idea and links it to others through interconnected bubbles. The branching structure helps make the ideation process clear and lets you quickly trace relationships. ClickUp’s Bubble Map Template also allows you to modify each bubble according to its importance, making prioritization easy.

The template’s visualization features help you identify patterns and trends. Zooming out and grasping the bigger picture becomes effortless when you use bubble map templates like this one as you create your circle map.

Finally, because it lets you break the circle into sections to represent different properties or characteristics, you can include multiple levels of information on one page.

4. ClickUp Squad Brainstorming Template

Download This Template

For those who need a collaboration-focused brainstorming session, the ClickUp Squad Brainstorming Template is the ideal framework.

This whiteboard template has a pre-designed, circle map-inspired framework that makes it easy to process ideas and document discussions transparently.

This circle map template can be easily customized to view individual contributions so that no one feels left out during the session. Your team can customize task statuses, making it easier to track progress and turn ideas into action.

With built-in real-time tracking and instant task generation, this brainstorming template makes idea management seamless. 

5. ClickUp Brainstorming Template

Download This Template

If you’re looking for a structured template to combine with the circle map visualization, the ClickUp Brainstorming Template hits that sweet spot.

The real-time updates help your team bounce ideas off each other instantly. Quickly jot down your ideas in the template’s tabular spaces before you map them to your business targets. The template also helps you draw actions and action ideas by connecting keywords and concepts to tasks.

It perfectly complements the circle map method, so you can tailor your brainstorming session in a way that works for you. Use it to import existing tasks, document files, or infographics to reduce the effort required to develop new brainstorming techniques. 

Elevate Ideation with Circle Map Templates by ClickUp

When armed with the right tools and techniques, your brainstorming sessions can fuel team creativity, business process improvements, and overall business growth.

A circle map provides a clear and structured brainstorming approach to visualize, create, and implement your ideas. Try using the five Clickup templates described above to instantly improve the quality of your creative output.

And don’t stop there. Sign up on ClickUp today to unleash innovation and drive productivity.

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Here, we’ll show you how program management templates can make you more efficient and what to look for in these tools. We’ll also share some of our favorite program management plan templates to get started.

Let’s start making your project management efforts easier, shall we?

What is a Program Management Template?

Program management is similar to project management, with a few key differences. In project management, you focus on producing smaller deliverables from one specific project. In program management, you’re handling dozens of interconnected and complex projects that comprise a larger system. 

The goal of a program management plan is to support the organization or business through multiple avenues. These roles demand a higher level of leadership, coordination, and communication.

That’s where program management tools like templates come in. A program management template is a tool that simplifies the various steps of managing interrelated projects. They can help you create individual project plans, identify project interdependencies, and create road maps for project planning.

Some templates can also help you track the program process, draft program proposals, and conduct audits of existing procedures.

What Makes a Good Program Management Template?

Ready to use a program management template to make your process planning easier? 

Here’s what makes a great program management template:

• Overview and project scope visibility: A key aspect of program management is knowing your ultimate goal. Look for templates where you can outline the program plan and main objectives
• Tools to identify key elements and dependencies: program management relies heavily on identifying potential constraints. Keep an eye out for templates that offer features for organizational structure and road maps to keep the program on schedule
• Timeline functionality: Programs are made up of various projects with due dates for deliverables. Keep track of progress with a template to create a timeline and timeframe for the program goals
• Collaboration support: To be a successful program manager, you need to juggle several projects, sometimes across departments. A great template will offer seamless collaboration between team members as well as stakeholders—whether it’s project management software project schedule tools
• Customizable dashboards: Personalized views offer insight into specific program steps, make process tracking easier, and enable you to control permissions at various stages in the program management plan

10 Free Program Management Templates to Use in 2024

With program management templates, you can save time whether you’re outlining the scope of multiple projects or looking for ways to streamline your processes. There are a ton of templates to choose from, so you can pick the right one for your needs. 

From templates that help you track workflows to ones that enable you to analyze all of your existing processes, there’s a way to make your work faster and more effective. And with process improvement tools and process mapping tools, you can create roadmaps for programs and track progress from kickoff to finish.

Here’s a list of our 10 favorite templates you can use right now.

1. ClickUp Program Management Template

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ClickUp’s Program Management Template makes tracking multiple projects and their relationship to a larger program goal easy. Quickly create folders for different projects and assign tasks, deadlines, and milestones for each in the project timeline.

Build issue and risk views to identify potential roadblocks and address problems as they arise to avoid derailing the program so you’re on top of your project deliverables with this Gantt chart template and get a holistic view into your project progress.

Hop into the Board view in this project plan template to get a bird’s eye view of what’s been completed, what’s in progress, and what’s coming next.

2. ClickUp Program Status Report Template 

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With ClickUp’s Program Status Report Template, providing updates on where the program and individual projects stand has never been easier. Create an overview of the program in a visually pleasing layout with charts, graphs, and tables that highlight the most important information. 

Fill out the Program Health chart template section to identify the status of individual projects that make up the larger program. Color code projects that are on track in green, use yellow to identify projects that have issues, and flag in red any projects that need immediate attention to get back on schedule. 

Create a Gantt chart to visualize the entire program roadmap, and use graphs to identify project controls and resource allocation. A program manager can also dive further into project risks with a table highlighting the identified issue and action items.

3. ClickUp Program Tracker Template 

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One difficult aspect of program management is keeping a clear view of everything that is going on. With several ongoing projects and various team members, it’s easy for things to fall through the cracks. Not anymore, thanks to the Program Tracker Template from ClickUp.

This timeline plan template offers visibility into each project while also identifying their priority.

A program manager can use the different views to determine project timelines for each department and highlight the work capacity of individual team members. Start by defining the program in the Projects List view.

Create and assign tasks to various project team members, and add due dates that can be used to create a timeline for each project. In the Timeline view, group your activities by department and filter based on project phase to track program progress.

Use the Workload view to see how work is divvied up between employees. Use this information from the work breakdown structure to reassign tasks, reallocate workloads, and adjust the timeline to keep the program on track for success.

4. ClickUp Program Summary Template

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Need a way to provide quick program updates and a concise synopsis? Turn to the Program Summary Template by ClickUp. Use this one-page progress report template to give busy stakeholders or team members insight into project status, without making them read endless pages of a report.

Include information like a general overview of progress, a quick mention of issues and their proposed solutions, and highlights of any next steps.

5. ClickUp Program Proposal Template

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Program management isn’t just about tracking and handling the progress of interconnected projects. A key aspect of program management is identifying new projects and programs that can support the organization’s main project goals.

This makes it simple for a program manager to pitch ideas to upper-level management with ClickUp’s Program Proposal Template. 

Start by filling out the basic details of your proposal, such as the program description along with the proposed objectives, methodology, layout, and budget.

With a visually pleasing interface and concise details, the project management office (PMO) is sure to hit “approve”!

6. ClickUp Program Charter Template 

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Another great way to provide a quick overview of the program is to use ClickUp’s Program Charter Template. Use this project planning charter template to outline the project management plan throughout the project life cycle.

Start by laying out the program organization including the title of the program, the communication plan, and the project schedule including start and end dates. Project managers can use this to then dive deeper into the individual team members that will play a role in the program and the objectives.

With this free project management template, you can outline the metrics you’ll use to determine a successful project, the scope of work, and any initiatives and action plans.

Keep this folder in an easy-to-access location within your ClickUp Workspace. That way a project manager or your employees and stakeholders can refer to it as they work through the program, making sure they stay aware of objectives and milestones they should be hitting.

Streamline your program management with AI project management!

7. ClickUp Program Increment Board Template

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Program Increments set a timeline and objectives for agile teams that are part of a larger Agile Release Train. Use ClickUp’s Program Increment Board Template if you’re looking to add automation to this critical planning step.

The Whiteboard view is built for collaboration so a project manager can use this to help the team brainstorm and track ideas from all stakeholders during the process.

Start by defining your program plan phases and then identifying program team members. Assign capacity and load to various team members and departments based on availability to track workflows.

Next, add milestones and activities to the task list for a visual into what everyone is responsible for.

8. ClickUp Audit Program Template 

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Make life easier for your auditing team with a program management plan template that focuses on resource management. With ClickUp’s Audit Program Template, track fixed assets to ensure you’re complying with company standards.

Use the summary view to outline the main goals of the audit program in the project management template.

Then you can use the By Procedure Board view to see where each item is in the audit process. Switch to the Audit Findings Board view to sort tasks by their audit score.

When you’re ready to create an action plan to-do list, hop into the Needs Attention List view to see a quick real-time breakdown of all items that need to be addressed. The Board view makes it easy to track all the projects in one view so toy can make the ultimate project plan for your auditing process.

9. ClickUp Efficient Processes Template 

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Being a program manager means you need to be efficient and adaptable to meet the demands of constantly evolving business environments. ClickUp’s Efficient Processes Template is designed to boost productivity and optimize program management plan processes.

From conducting analysis to creating action items for change management, this template makes you a more effective leader.

To get started, outline all of your process activities that need to be optimized. Use the Process Overview List view to create tasks for each one. Fill out the project management template custom fields, including the process description, effort level, role, and deadlines.

For processes that need extra work, create subtasks to break it down into easier-to-manage tasks in the project management template.

The Gantt Chart view quickly plots all of your entries into a chart to visualize the project schedule. This view also highlights dependencies so you can identify any potential roadblocks or areas where the program will get hung up in various project phases.

Want a way to collaborate when brainstorming planning processes? Switch over to the SIPOC Diagram Whiteboard view. If you’re a visual person, use the Process Map Whiteboard view to take a pictorial view of your process mapping.

10. ClickUp Process Audit Template

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Analyze and improve your processes using ClickUp’s Process Audit Template. Based on the Soft Software Methodology, the template focuses on systems and real-world thinking when working through an audit. A custom field for files lets you upload project documents and spreadsheets to support your research and findings. 

Use this template to do a complete overhaul of your processes or build it into your audit system to conduct regular updates and reviews of procedures to ensure they are optimized. The project management template has five tabs, each designed to give insight into your processes, how they can be improved, and action items for making those changes. 

In the Model Conception tab, create a framework for the audit process. Here you can add tasks, including one to outline the existing process, identify gaps, create a proposal for changes, and compare models with real-world situations in your project plan.

In the Process Analysis tab, dive deeper into the nitty-gritty details of your existing process. This can include how visible your processes are to team members, necessary resources, and monitoring procedures.

Hop into the CATWOE Analysis tab to use the problem-solving framework to identify areas for improvement in your processes. CATWOE stands for Clients, Actors, Worldview, Owners, and Environment.

By evaluating each of these, you can come up with program goals and processes that better serve your organization and customers. 

Finally, the Change Management tab is ideal for highlighting any insights discovered during the process audit and laying out next steps. Depending on how much change is required, you can break these tasks down into different phases or simply create one or two tasks to address the issues.

Take Your Program Management Up a Notch With Program Tracker Templates

Program management is a challenging and rewarding career. You’ll need to leverage your communication skills and flex your planning acumen to develop programs that support your organization’s goals. 

From brainstorming to time tracking to project completion, you need to be on your game to get the job done in your project plan.

Get support from tools like the program management templates on this list that can help you with everything from creating schedules to auditing progress. 

Ready to take your program management to the next level?

Try ClickUp today!

Start by browsing our PMO templates and integrations that are designed so you can create action plans, audits, road maps, and more for all of your program management needs.

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