REPE Firm - plugins for managing emails, reminders, to-do's, etc. in Outlook?

To supercharge your Outlook and make it a powerhouse for managing emails, reminders, and tasks, here are some of the most helpful tools and strategies based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. Outlook Rules and Folders:

   • Set up rules to automatically sort incoming emails into specific folders based on criteria like sender, subject, or keywords. This helps keep your inbox clean and organized.
   • Use a triage system: emails requiring immediate action go to an "Actions" folder, while others can be archived or flagged for later.

2. Task Management Integration:

   • Todoist: A popular task management tool that integrates with Outlook. It allows you to create tasks directly from emails, set reminders, and categorize tasks by project. It syncs across devices, ensuring you're always up-to-date.
   • Wrike: Another excellent option for task management. It’s particularly useful for teams and offers features like shared task lists, project tracking, and reminders.

3. Email Filing and Search:

   • Regularly file emails (both sent and received) into relevant folders. Some users recommend doing this weekly to avoid backlog.
   • Use Outlook's advanced search features or consider AI-powered tools like Lookeen or X1 Search for faster and more precise email searches.

4. Calendar and Scheduling:

   • Use Outlook's calendar to block time for high-priority tasks. This ensures you allocate dedicated time to critical items.
   • Set follow-up reminders for emails or tasks directly in Outlook.

5. File Explorer Integration:

   • Pin frequently used folders in Windows Explorer for quick access to deal files or project documents. This reduces time spent navigating shared drives.

6. Third-Party Plugins:

   • SmartShortcuts: Designed by a WSO user, this tool offers custom shortcuts to streamline repetitive tasks and reduce strain.
   • Evernote: While not directly integrated with Outlook, it’s a great tool for organizing notes and tasks, and you can link it to emails or projects.

7. Email Automation:

   • Set up auto-emailing in Outlook to send emails at specific times. For example, if you finish work early, schedule emails to go out in the morning to maintain the appearance of working late.

8. General Tips:

   • Keep your inbox under control by aiming for fewer than 30 emails at any given time. Flag or mark emails as unread to remind yourself of pending actions.
   • Experiment with view settings in Outlook to find what works best for you.

These tools and strategies will help you stay organized, efficient, and ahead of the curve in your role. If you're willing to invest a bit, many of these tools are affordable and can significantly boost your productivity.

Sources: How do you guys organize yourselves?, Small Developer Advice - Second Week, How do you stay organized at work (both in general and on action item lists)? (x-post w/ MC forum), Excel: Tools, Add-Ins, and Macros, What I Wish Every First Year Analyst Knew