PPB June 2018

Get Organized With The Latest Productivity Tools | JUNE 2018 | 45 GROW Time management is a puzzle that just about everyone is trying to solve, and there is an ever- increasing supply of solutions in the marketplace, including electronic calendars and apps that track time spent on projects, manage to-do lists, take notes and organize daily tasks. While these tools are undoubtedly useful, many people still turn to paper products as an alternative or supplement. U.S. datebook sales increased by over $50 million between 2014 and 2016, according to The NPD Group, Inc., an American market research company. “The 21st-century smartphone allows people to bank online, schedule appointments, set reminders, watch cat videos and yes, even make phone calls,” says Melissa Timko, advertising director for supplier ModernLine (PPAI 113978). “But busy families still have their calendars hanging on a wall with all their sports activities, doctor appointments and school functions.” The appeal of paper calendars and planners continues to surprise those who had predicted the demise of this product category. But people who prefer a traditional planner have their reasons, including the tactile feel of a physical page, the ability to keep everything in one place and adherence to business etiquette, since checking a calendar on a phone in a group setting or meeting may be perceived as rude, but opening a planner is perfectly acceptable. Not to mention, nothing beats the satisfaction of marking items off a to-do list in ink. In addition, a research study published by the Association for Psychological Science concluded that handwriting assists with comprehension and retention, so the physical act of marking something on paper—as opposed to typing it into a digital device— improves the odds that it will be remembered. Personalization—a hot button for younger generations—has spurred a new trend in paper planners that combines the practical aspects of scheduling with creative customization. Fans of this trend use original art, stickers and cutouts to decorate their planners, which double as craft-like diaries. The online planner community is thriving, with planner enthusiasts posting color-coding ideas and organizational techniques on Instagram and Pinterest, among other platforms. In fact, a recent YouTube search for “planners” netted almost three million results including tutorials, product reviews and “big reveals” of finished projects. And those looking for a more hands-on experience can attend multi-day conferences with educational speakers, panels, workshops and social events. Thanks to their cross- generational appeal, all signs point to the continued popularity of traditional time management devices. “Calendars are still alive and thriving in the home, at work and even in the backpack or purse,” adds Timko. “[Branded] calendars and pocket planners keep your information in front of your customers daily, reminding them who you are, how to reach you and why they should call you.” The Duo 2-in-1 Organizer is a multitasking tool that is perfect for organizing schoolwork, financial documents, medical files and shopping lists. The organizer includes a one-inch, three-ring binder that keeps punched papers organized, and a seven- pocket accordion-style expanding file to hold loose papers securely. Samsill Promo / PPAI 587710 / www.samsillpromo.com The Mini Desk Calendar earns valuable year-round real estate on any desk. With 12 five-inch by five-inch calendar month cards and a six-inch triangle base easel, this calendar allows users to start with any month of the year. Each calendar package includes a branded cover page and a year-at-a-glance calendar. Tektured / PPAI 713327 / www.tektured.com