Apr
21
Random Review - GTD
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Getting Things Done by David Allen, first published in 2001, has been a slow moving phenomena as it has taken nearly 6 years to enter the NY Times Business Best Sellers list. Yet, when I speak to groups of executives at emerging companies, fewer than 5% of even heard of the book.
Allen’s seminal work is a summary of his productivity management practice with Fortune 500 companies. His work put the traditional to do list and priority coding productivity systems to shame (including Covey’s 7 Habits).
After successfully implementing GTD (as it’s called) into my own practice after my second child was born, I began recommending the process to my time-frazzled clients who often complained that they lacked the time to successfully move their companies forward.
A great thing about GTD is that you don’t have to follow the system religiously to gain benefits. Using bits and pieces can make a difference in your life. In addition, the processes are really common sense and intuitive.
Like any system, there are limitations. I’ve yet to meet anyone able to successfully implement the book in earnest without outside support. Ironically, it’s the time-tested entrepreneurs that need it most yet don’t make the time to read the book.
In addition, in reading David’s work, I get the distinct impression that he never had kids. While he does acknowledge an executive’s home life, I get the sense that kids don’t enter into his equation. While GTD brilliantly integrates your personal and professional life, time with family is an important point that receives short shift.
Regardless of any shortcomings, I recommend using GTD without hesitation.