Technological innovation has inspired a new generation of remote workers. Thanks to the power of Internet-connected devices, a.k.a. the IoT, it is possible to maximize output with a power-packed selection of tech tools and resources.
Today we explore five assistive technologies that can help employees stay focused and productive.
These include time management tools, distraction-blocking systems, automated technologies, productivity-tracking solutions, speech-to-text tools, enhanced visual elements, and more. So, let’s begin in earnest!
1. Time Management Tools
Toggl:
This simple yet powerful time management tool allows you to measure how much time you spend on different tasks and then compare your performance with other team members.
It’s easy to use and has an intuitive interface that makes tracking your work easier. Moreover, the Toggl app can be integrated with all productivity tools like Asana and Trello, making it an ideal solution for those who love using various apps to get things done.
RescueTime:
If you’re looking for an automated way to keep track of your daily activities and see where you’re spending most of your time during the day, consider giving RescueTime a try.
It runs in the background while you work, tracking which applications and websites you use so that it can provide detailed reports on your activity at the end of each day.
In addition to helping you boost your productivity, RescueTime can also block distracting websites so that you stay focused on the task at hand. Plus, the basic version is free.
Focus Booster:
Based on the Pomodoro Technique (a popular time management strategy), Focus Booster helps break down tasks into manageable chunks, so they’re not as overwhelming.
Once you start a session in Focus Booster, it will set a timer for 25 minutes and then provide a five-minute break; after four sessions, there’s a longer 20-minute break.
You can customize these settings according to your preferences and even set up alerts when it’s time to take a break or start working again! Plus, a handy desktop widget makes it easy to launch new sessions without having to open the app every time. You can also consider Exaktime, which is packed with many highly productive features.
2. Distraction-Blocking Tools
BlockSite:
While many tech tools, add-ons, and software claim to block distractions online, one, in particular, stands out. BlockSite is a powerful add-on for Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome, and it helps employees stay focused on the tasks at hand by blocking all the distracting elements.
This browser add-on teaches employees how to stay focused on the job with no distractions and maximum productivity. It is a focus-oriented system designed to enhance work and study productivity.
3. Voice-to-Text Software
Dragon Anywhere:
This mobile app allows you to dictate text directly into your mobile device, making it perfect for taking notes on the go or writing long emails when you don’t have time to type them out.
You can also use Dragon Anywhere to create and edit documents, which is handy if you need to make changes to a document while away from your computer.
Best of all – the app syncs with the desktop version of Dragon so that your dictated text is available across all devices.
Otter Voice Notes:
Otter Voice Notes is another great option for those who want an easy way to record and transcribe speech.
It’s especially useful for recording lectures or meetings so you can refer back to them later! Otter Voice Notes offers 600 minutes of transcription free per month, which should be more than enough for most people.
Windows Speech Recognition:
This built-in tool comes pre-installed on Windows 10 computers and can be used to dictate text and perform basic commands like opening apps and files.
Although it’s not as accurate as other options on this list, it’s still worth considering if you’re looking for a free solution.
To activate Windows Speech Recognition, search for it in the Start menu or Cortana search bar. Once it’s open, follow the instructions on-screen to set up your microphone and start dictating.
4. Visual Enhancement Tools
F.lux:
This free app adjusts the colour temperature of your screen according to the time of day, making it easier on your eyes when working in low-light conditions.
It also reduces the blue light emitted by screens, which can help you sleep better at night! To get started with F.lux, simply download it from their website and follow the instructions to install it on your computer.
Afterwards, you can customize the settings to adjust the colour temperature and brightness level according to your preferences.
Gamma Control:
Gamma Control is another great option for those who want more control over their screen’s colour temperature. It allows you to independently adjust the red, green, and blue values to find the perfect balance for your eyesight.
Plus, pre-set profiles are available for different times of the day or lighting conditions, making it easy to get started without having to fiddle with the settings too much.
5. Automation Tools
IFTTT:
This useful tool allows you to automate tasks using a simple ‘if this, then that’ formula! For example, you could set up an automation so that whenever you mark an email as necessary in Gmail, it automatically gets added to your to-do list in Trello.
Or, if you want to ensure you never forget your grocery list at home again, you could create an automation that sends a text message to your phone every time you add something new to the list in Google Keep.
Best of all? IFTTT is free to use with no limits on the number of automation you can create.
Microsoft Flow:
If you’re looking for an automation tool specifically for Microsoft products, consider giving Microsoft Flow a try. It works similarly to IFTTT but only supports integrations with Microsoft products like Outlook, SharePoint, OneDrive, and more.
Plus, dozens of templates are available, so you can start quickly without building everything from scratch.
