As we step into the modern age of technology, the way we work and communicate has evolved. From handwritten memos to instant messaging and cloud-based project management platforms, we now have a vast array of productivity tools that allow us to be more efficient and effective than ever before. In this blog, weโ€™ll compare the old and new productivity tools used in the workplace, and highlight the advantages of modern technology in the modern workplace.

๐Ÿ“œ Old Productivity Tools

Typewriters

Back in the day, Typewriters were the heart of office work. They were used to type everything from memos to letters to reports. Since they only displayed one line of text at a time, it made correcting mistakes a tedious task. Once a document was typed, it was then filed away in a cabinet.

 A vintage typewriter sitting on a wooden table

Fax Machines

Fax machines were introduced in the early 1980s. They were used to send physical copies of documents by phone line. Fax machines helped with communication between businesses, and made it easier and quicker to send important documents. However, it was also a time-consuming process, and a lot of time and resources were wasted on handling the paper documents.

 A image of a Fax machine next to a stack of paper

Memos

Memos or memorandums, were used to send information or communicate a directive with co-workers within an office. They were often typed or handwritten and distributed through interoffice mail. When it comes to memos, there were no guarantees that the recipient would get the memo on time, or even read it at all.

 A handwritten memo sitting on a desk

๐Ÿ’ป New Productivity Tools

Email

Email revolutionized the way we communicate in the workplace. Instead of relying on physical memos or even fax machines, email allows us to send messages instantly to anyone, anywhere. We can attach files, images, or documents and send them with just a few clicks. However, the downside of email is that it can be overwhelming, causing people to lose important messages in the midst of their overflowing inboxes.

 A computer screen displaying an email inbox

Instant Messaging

Instant Messaging, like Slack or Microsoft Teams, is a messaging platform that allows team members to communicate instantly about projects and tasks. It reduces the overload of an email inbox, and makes it easier to collaborate in real-time. This tool also enables team members to share documents and even video chat to work out problems.

 A computer screen with a Slack chat window open

Cloud-Based Project Management Tools

Cloud-based project management tools are software platforms that enable teams to collaborate on tasks, projects, and workflow. This tool not only allows team members to share information and ideas easily, but they also can assign tasks and deadlines, monitor progress, and even track time to finish things before deadlines. This is an all-in-one solution and can really help boost productivity in any business.

 Computer screens showing project management software

๐ŸŽ‰ Summing Up

As we can see, productivity tools have come a long way, and the evolution of technology has made a significant difference in our workplace practices. The implementation of new tools has enabled us to work smarter, faster, and more efficiently, allowing us to complete more complex projects and tasks in less time. Itโ€™s imperative to stay ahead of the curve and take advantage of the technology thatโ€™s available to us today.

 A group of co-workers working productively together in an office