yaTimer Main Screen

I periodically return to the subject of time management on this blog because I myself find it such a challenge.  I dream that some software solution or time-management system will come along that solves my problem of too many conflicting projects, all demanding my time on a daily basis.  So I always keep my eye open for “the next best solution.”  All day Saturday Bits du Jour will be offering a discount on a software timer I’ve never encountered before:  yaTimer.

I like this one.  I’ve downloaded it and will test it out during the day.  There’s a good chance I’ll buy it to take advantage of the discount from $39 to $19, especially since I’ve returned to Manila energized to finally get back on top of my various projects.

What appeals to me, at first glance?  First, it’s strong graphic interface.  This timer is not some little discreet box that hides away somewhere on screen to be easily forgotten.  I’ve learned from other similar programs that I work more efficiently and get much more done when I have all of my day’s tasks staring me straight in the eye.  In this program, the big numerals reporting time spent make it very clear just where the day’s time is going.  It delivers the kick-in-the-pants motivation that I truly need.  With my recently putchased 22-inch monitor, I can keep the timer and my project work space visible simultaneously.

Secondly, one can handle multiple tasks very conveniently.  I need that, as I’m always multi-tasking.  This software lays out some buttons that make it easy to shift from one project to another.  Other timers I’ve tested do this too, but this one seems easier to handle.  I’ll know if that’s true by the end of the day.

Third, tasks can be carried over from day to day.  And the program accumulates data about total time spent for easy review and reporting.  It’s also easy to add little notations about what aspect of a project I’m actually working on, as the time passes.

Fourth, the single user license allows installation on up to three computers.  I LOVE THAT!  I can install it on my desktops in the Philippines and Mexico, as well as on my laptop!  Increasingly, I’m evaluating programs on the generosity of their license.  Too much software is so restrictive in how it can be utilized that I turn away from it, no matter how appealing it might be.

Free-lancers may find this program especially useful when it comes time for billing.  It offers a capable reporting facility.

But enough…   If you also struggle with time allocation, take a look at the Bits du Jour discount offer.  And also take a look at the software’s home page.  And finally look at the eye-popping screenshots — that’s what propelled me into downloading the program for a test-run and to write this quick notice.

SIXTEEN HOURS LATER:  I’ve now had time to play around with this software.  IT’S A KEEPER, well worth it’s cost.

Here are some of the additional features that really appeal to me.

Tasks can be eiasily associated with larger Projects and with individual clients.

Tasks can be arranged on-screen in a top-to-bottom list as you wish, perhaps by priority, or maybe by the sequence in which you wish to deal with them.

Your tasks can be on a cumulative timer — or on a COUNTDOWN timer, which is convenient especially to sehcule rest breaks during the day.

I do not recall seeing any other timer software with this much power.  Of course, there are free ones, useful but limited.  This is one on the expensive side, but for me it’s worth it.  For other options, check the “Finding Time” chapter in our table of contents.

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Over the past two years, I’ve looked at many such programs.  Most were too cumbersome for me, or required me to be online all the time.

User comments about this software suggest that it’s especially simple to use.  Their descriptions are enticing.  And the software is available in both Mac and Windows versions [tho it appears tilted more toward Mac users].  I learned about it from an exuberant new convert on FriendFeed.

If any of you try out this software, please share your findings with us in the comment section below.