5 Steps to Manage Tasks for Your Brick and Mortar Store with SmartSuite

Hey there, fellow brick and mortar store owners! You know the drill - you're running your physical storefront, juggling staff and orders, and, let’s face it, keeping everyone on the same page is like herding cats. You've probably seen all those high-tech task management tools being talked about (like our friends at SmartSuite, who are sponsoring this post, by the way), and you wonder, "how can I bring some of that magic to my shop?"

Don't sweat it. I'm here to walk you through the same five steps I shared with a family member when they faced this very conundrum. As a bit of a project management software whiz (if I do say so myself), I've got some insights that I think will steer you towards a tidier, more systematized business. So, grab your notepad, and let's dive in!

Step 1: Find the Perfect Spot for Your Tasks

Well, it sounds obvious, but bear with me - every task needs a home. Often, it's the trusty whiteboard. Simple, right?

"Having a list right there that you can interact with is invaluable..."

But whiteboards can be fickle friends - a slip of the hand, and poof! Tasks can disappear. Plus, ever tried adding tasks while contemplating life in the shower or queuing for groceries? Not the most convenient. That's why we're eyeing something more digital, a reliable spot that can follow you wherever you are.

Think of how remote teams operate. They've got digital task lists - the lifeline that keeps everyone in sync, preventing work chaos. In physical spaces, though, task management often gets a bit more improvised - the dirty counter signals it's time to clean, right? But for true task mastery, a digital hub where your tasks reside is your ticket to serenity and order. Imagine all your tasks, clear as day, just a glance away from every team member.

Choosing Your Digital Task Hub

Now, what's the best pick for this digital utopia? A whiteboard, a complex tool, sticky notes, or something else? My advice - check out SmartSuite, especially if it's just you or a small team because you can start for free.

SmartSuite stands out since it's adept at handling tasks and data management. Imagine having a trove of SKUs, inventory details, numbers - all in one place that grows with your business. It's a no-brainer! Go ahead, sign up with SmartSuite using our affiliate link below.

Step 2: Creating Your Task List

Got your SmartSuite set up? Awesome! Now, create a space within it for all your to-dos.

Using SmartSuite templates:

1. Hit the "Add a new solution" button.
2. Opt for a task or project management template (depending on your savviness and needs).
3. Make it your own - tailor it, name it "Store Tasks," or whatever floats your boat.
4. Purge that demo data to make room for your real-world tasks.

Feels pretty good, doesn't it? Now you're ready for the ever-so-important step three.

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Step 3: Populating Your Task List

Start typing away, my friend. Let those tasks pour out of your brain and into SmartSuite. Need to train a new person? Add it. Closing shop on Monday? On the list, it goes!

Step 4: Assign Those Tasks

Time to get assigning! Put names to tasks, even if it's all you for now. Add deadlines too - we're after finished tasks, not just "in progress" forever. As you assign, remember, multiple assignees can spell trouble (cue the blame game). Keep it simple - one task, one person.

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Step 5: Make it a Ritual

Ah, the pièce de résistance - turning task management into a habit. It's all about the what, when, and who. What? Check that task list. When? Start and end of each day, perhaps. Who? You, the crew, everyone!

"Make it a ritual... as normal as your morning coffee."

Get the whole team huddled for a quick meeting, make it a thing, a routine. Stream it on a TV, put it on a tablet in the breakroom - make it visible.

So, that's a wrap on managing your tasks. Whether digital or analog, the goal is to find something that sticks and work it - because, in the end, a well-oiled task management machine means a smoother-running business.

Either way, thank SmartSuite for supporting this guide, and here's to you enjoying the process and reigniting the order in your store!

To experience SmartSuite's key benefits for yourself, start a free trial today and explore its intuitive work management platform.