Last Thursday January 9, I was happy to return to present again as part of the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance's "Let's Get Down to Business" business support series. I was asked to share my ideas about "Productivity & Technology in 2025". It was fun!

While we discussed various tech & AI-related tools, I started by reviewing essential systems and concepts to consider as you improve your personal & business productivity in the coming year.

Below are some key nuggets from the talk, which you can learn from, too!

Productivity Tech is Not Magic

I started out noting, "tech is NOT magic." Simply slapping a productivity tool name on something doesn't guarantee results. It takes upfront strategy and hard work to implement technology effectively in your business.

"I know, real bummer. Just signing up for the free trial and expecting them to know your process is not going to cut it."

For businesses, I emphasized how I see this in my experiences as a "Business Technologist." Since I help companies select the right technology to align with their needs and processes, I always see the "Magic Tech Myth".

The Power of GTD

One of the key frameworks I shared was David Allen's "Getting Things Done" (GTD) methodology. This system focuses on capturing everything, clarifying what needs to be done, and then organizing tasks to present only the next actionable steps. I have been using variants of GTD for decades.

"The greatest benefit to GTD is the inbox concept. This has you collect ALL ideas coming into your physical inbox, email, or head into central locations to deal with them individually at designated times, effectively managing the onslaught."

I explained how GTD adds a robust personal project management element, allowing you to plan tasks sequentially and consider context. The weekly review process also helps maintain an overall perspective on your work. The goal is not just to do more but to do the right things efficiently.

Time To Get Things Done

While systems like GTD provide a solid productivity framework, you must move into doing. Tactics and platforms like the Pomodoro Technique and Focusmate can help create distraction-free work environments.

"In today's age of constant digital distractions, having the right productivity tools is key. For me, the Pomodoro Technique and Focusmate have been game-changers. Pomodoro's 25-minute focus sprints keep me on task and prevent me from getting sucked into social media or email. And Focusmate's virtual accountability partner helps me stay laser-focused during those Pomodoro sessions - there's something about working alongside someone, even remotely, that curbs the urge to slack off."

So, What Did Attendees Value?

Attendees found the presentation valuable based on feedback I received. The aspects of the presentation that were particularly helpful included:

• Learning more about AI in the workplace and how to implement it
• Examples of vetted AI applications to try out
• Tips on how to be more productive using the latest tech apps and websites

Many attendees expressed interest in learning more about the legal and ethical considerations around AI, as this was a "hot button" topic that generated a lot of discussion. I plan to do more on AI as 2025 proceeds. What would you like to know about AI?

Wrap-Up: Balancing Technology, Systems, and the Human Touch

To wrap it up, I emphasized balancing technology, systems, and the human touch. It was important to reiterate the core principles of GTD and stress that technology is a tool to support these principles, not a replacement for human creativity and decision-making.

"The key is to take that initial leap and put these concepts into practice. By doing so, you'll unlock new levels of focus, efficiency, and work-life balance."

So then, what is our next action to get started right in 2025? I shared a simple framework for the audience:

• Start Small: Pick one area (e.g., task capture or automation) to improve with productivity technology.
• Stay Consistent: Build habits around using your chosen tools daily — AI or otherwise.
• Reflect Regularly: Review what's working and adjust your system. Tech and your needs change fast.

How are you starting your 2025 strong in regards to "Productivity & Technology"? I'd love to hear what you are trying. Also, let me know if I can help!

Yours in Tech,

—Joshua

Disclaimer: I use AI to help write emails like these. I review & edit all AI-assisted work I publish