Model:
Summary:
The attached model is an impact-effort matrix used to prioritize tasks based on their impact and effort required. This model divides tasks into four quadrants, each representing a different priority level.
- Do Now (High Impact, Low Effort): This quadrant contains tasks that should be prioritized immediately. These tasks require minimal effort but have a significant impact on your goals or objectives. They are considered the most efficient use of your time and resources, as they provide the greatest return on investment with the least amount of effort.
- Do Later (High Impact, High Effort): Tasks in this quadrant are important but require considerable effort. These should be tackled after the 'Do Now' tasks. They are crucial for long-term success and should be approached with a plan for steady progress. Although they are not immediate priorities, they should not be neglected.
- Do Later (Low Impact, Low Effort): This quadrant includes tasks that are not urgent and have minimal impact. These can be addressed after higher-priority tasks are completed. While they don't demand immediate attention, they should be kept on the radar and completed as time allows. These tasks are suitable for filler time or low-energy periods.
- Forget It (Low Impact, High Effort): Tasks in this quadrant should generally be avoided or delegated. They require significant effort but yield little to no impact. These tasks are inefficient and not a good use of time and resources. By avoiding or delegating them, you can focus on more productive activities.
The impact-effort matrix helps streamline task management by visually organizing tasks based on their potential return and required effort. This strategic approach ensures that you focus on tasks that maximize productivity and efficiency, helping achieve goals more effectively.
Overall, this model is a valuable tool for prioritizing work, managing time, and increasing productivity by focusing on tasks that offer the highest value for the least effort and strategically planning the more demanding but impactful tasks.
Sources:
The Seven Habits Of Highly Effective People - Stephen Covey
Scaling People - Claire Hughes JohnsonQuotes:
"Efficiency is doing better what is already being done. Effectiveness is deciding what to do better.” - Peter Drucker
“Prioritize: Do fewer, Do Them Better.” - Mahan Khals