Smartphones are mini-computers; it all depends on what you are using them for. Though it could be a source of huge distraction, it can also be a productivity tool. Justice Okamgba writes on how you up productivity with your smartphones
In today’s fast-paced world, smartphones have become essential for staying connected and getting things done. However, with numerous apps and distractions, using your phone as a productivity tool can be challenging.
Fortunately, several easy hacks can help you optimize your phone and turn it into the ultimate productivity tool.
Download productive apps
To enhance your phone’s productivity, a crucial step is optimizing your home screen. Remove distracting apps and replace them with productivity tools like Evernote, and online learning apps like Udemy, Coursera.
“There is a way you will optimise and organise your screen and it becomes easy to navigate,” says Cybersecurity expert at SAP, Chukwuka Madumere in a response to The PUNCH.
“Smartphones are becoming a distraction for many people. You can see how people spend time on social media doing nothing worthwhile. But that same smartphone can also be a productive tool. It can be a money spinner or aid what you do. Overall, it depends on how you use it,” he noted.
“I have seen many developers who are writing codes with their smartphones. Some people even practice coding with their phones as well. You don’t have to wait until you have a laptop. As I mentioned earlier, a smartphone could be a productive tool or a draining tool,” Madumere added.
Turn off notifications
Ifeanyi Ojukwu advised, “Minimise distractions by disabling notifications when striving for productivity. Navigate to your phone’s settings to turn off notifications for non-essential apps. Additionally, utilize the ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode during focused periods.
Consider integrating a time management app into your routine, setting reminders, and blocking distracting websites, enhancing your overall productivity.”
However, he explained that having notifications on is not entirely a bad idea, noting that it all depends on the type of notification a user is getting.
“For example, I set a notification for certain Twitter updates and notifications for those people in my industry I follow on Facebook. These notifications are work-related, so when I get them, it’s probably a new update that will help me,” he said.
Extend your battery life
Running out of battery can be a significant source of stress and distraction. To avoid this, extend your phone’s battery life by turning off features such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and location services when not in use.
Additionally, consider reducing screen brightness and activating power-saving mode to conserve battery life.
Ojukwu said, “It is good to have at least two smartphones if you are a digitally savvy person. Not just having two smartphones, you also need to have a power bank or power banks, considering the fact that power is a big problem in Nigeria.
“The reality is that you are always on these smartphones as long as they are your work tools, you cannot afford to be offline or not to perform when you are supposed to.
“I have seen many people who use their money to buy smartphones instead of buying laptops, but the reasons are not farfetched. Smartphones are now mini-computers, so, the only way to make sure you are not running out of battery is to have power banks in your bag,” he said.
Set keyboard shortcuts
If you frequently type the same phrases, save time by configuring keyboard shortcuts. For instance, set up shortcuts for your email address or common phrases like “I’m running late”, “I will respond soon,” “Acknowledged”, etc.This can enhance efficiency and productivity when you’re on the go.
Use hardware hacks
If you’re facing minor issues with your phone, consider trying hardware hacks to address them. For instance, if your phone’s speaker is muffled, use a toothbrush for cleaning. If the charging port is dirty, a toothpick can help clear it.
These simple hacks can maintain your phone’s functionality and prevent distractions from technical glitches.
According to Madumere, “When there are minor things to fix on my phone, like changing the battery, I do it myself. I am not saying everybody should do the same because I usually watch videos on YouTube to do this. I also have some of the tools needed.”
Use Microsoft collaboration apps
A software developer, Joel Omagbe, said,” There are a lot of apps you can use but if you are a team lead for example, and there are projects you are working on with your team, you may need to consider a collaborative tool from Microsoft like Team.”
“When we are working on a project and we are not in the same location, there may be a need to have a Team as a collaborative too,” Joel mentioned.
Microsoft Teams is a proprietary business communication platform developed by Microsoft.
Team primarily competes with the similar service Slack, offering workspace chat and videoconferencing, file storage and application integration.
“To be honest, this is one of those tools that I do not joke with. I can have a video conference with you and even control your PC from any location. This is just crazy.” The phone is a powerful tool that you can’t underestimate, the problem is just that we don’t use it the way it ought to be used, he said.
Further, anybody who uses the Microsoft Office on PCs, should leverage seamless transitions between phone and PC through Microsoft collaboration apps. Take handwritten notes on your phone using Microsoft OneNote, and easily share them via Microsoft Word or Outlook email. This enhances organization and productivity, even when you’re on the move.
In summary, implementing simple strategies can transform your smartphone into an unparalleled productivity powerhouse.
Streamlining your home screen, silencing notifications, incorporating a time management app, enhancing battery efficiency, configuring keyboard shortcuts, exploring hardware optimizations, and leveraging Microsoft collaboration apps all contribute to maximizing your phone’s potential for productivity, ensuring efficiency wherever you go.