Use Note-Taking Apps to Reduce Information Overload

In this new Web 2.0 world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed with information. Organizing the flow of information, for both work and personal uses, is one way to manage the constant stream of information and reduce information overload.

In recent years, the Internet has spawned all sorts of innovative web applications that can make your life and your law practice simpler and more manageable. Note-taking and information capturing applications are a great way to accomplish this and can help you have seamless control over your busy practice and your life.

There are an assortment of note-taking web applications for everyone, no matter what your preference. Here are two of my favorites, both of which are:

  1. free
  2. accessible on the Web and
  3. offer iPhone and Android apps.

First, there’s Evernote, one of the most well-known, free web applications in this class. Using your computer, handheld device or smart phone, you can save web pages, photos, text notes, and more. You can then organize the information you’ve collected by creating “notebooks” or by tabbing each item with keywords.

You can then easily locate stored information by searching for it. One of the best features of Evernote is that it is able to search for handwritten and printed words contained in images that you have saved. You can learn more about Evernote and get ideas for ways to use it here.

Another information capturing application that I use frequently is SpringPad. Like Evernote, you can access SpringPad using your computer, handheld device or smart phone. However, SpringPad differentiates itself by making the product useful for all aspects of your life, rather then targeting simply work-related information.

You can save all sorts of information, including web sites, photos, and text notes. You can also email notes or reminders to your SpringPad account. Using your smart phone, you can also scan in bar codes or save information based on your location. One of the best features of SpringPad is it gives you the option of using templates created for certain tasks, including managing a project, planning blog posts, vacation or event planning, wine tasting, planning weekly meals, or managing your household or office inventory.

Both of these information capturing apps are great choices. Use whichever one feels most intuitive to you and get a handle on the information overload!

Debbie Stephenson

Debbie Stephenson is a former Content Marketing Manager at Firmex.