devops_wiki:time_thieves

Time Thieves

Time thieves are things that steal your focus.

Work towards limiting them to become more productive:

  • Too much work in progress. (WIP)
    • Limit what you are working on to only a few (ideally 1) items at a time.
  • Unknown dependencies.
    • Poorly documented processes will turn a seemingly simple task into something complex.
  • Unplanned work.
    • Unstable systems/applications or “just do this quick thing” will eat up your day.
  • Conflicting prioritization.
    • Multiple people saying different tasks are critical.
  • Neglected work. (partially complete)
    • Focus and follow through tasks before handling someone's next critical item.

Tools such as kanban boards can help with prioritization and focus on a few tasks at a time.


  • devops_wiki/time_thieves.txt
  • Last modified: 2020/08/28 23:09
  • by billdozor