While some may consider them outdated, checklists are the hottest thing in my book right now.

Besides creating a daily todo list for miscellaneous tasks in my Palm, I’m also creating a checklist for each site that I’m working on.

Anyone who has ever built a new site from scratch knows there’s a bunch of components that go into the process:

• Pick a Domain
• Template and Header Image Design
• Research Keywords
• Write Articles
• Get Inbound Links
• Etc.

Traditionally (ie. the last few years) I would work on tasks from the hip as they came to my attention randomly. “Oh, I think I’ll do some keyword research for that site on widgets today” I would say. But as I continuously take on new and more challenging projects, I’m finding that I need to manage my time better.

I’ve only been doing it for a week and I’m finding myself at least 5 times more productive. For each website that I’m updating or creating, I’ll create a checklist for each one before I begin. Then, everyday I attempt to check off at least one or two items for each site. It seems to work like a charm; I’m finding myself completing tasks that I would otherwise put off.

When the next month rolls around and I’ll pick a few other sites to concentrate on, make new checklists, and do it all over again.

Give it a try, I’d like to hear how it works for you.