## What is Pareto's principle?

Pareto's principle, also known as the 80/20 rule, takes its name from the Italian economist Vilfredo Pareto. He first formulated it at the beginning of the 20th century, when he observed that **80% of the land in Italy belonged to just 20% of the population**. The principle then stated that, in many situations, around 80% of the results are generated by 20% of the causes. In other words, a minority of efforts produce the majority of results. The principle quickly becomes a powerful concept that can be applied to many aspects of life, including time management.


![what is 20 of 80](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/Loi_pareto_EN_c8000626e0.png)
## Time management and the 80/20 rule

Applied to time management, Pareto's principle means that 20% of your activities will produce 80% of your results. This means that if you identify these vital activities and prioritize them, you can save an enormous amount of time by eliminating or reducing less productive activities.

## How to save time with Pareto's principle

### 1. Identify your work tasks:
Start by making a complete list of all your work-related tasks and activities. Make sure you cover all activities, even the smallest ones.

### 2. Define your impact criteria: 
Establish precise criteria for evaluating the impact of each task. Criteria may vary according to your field of activity, but could include indicators such as sales generated, time saved, customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, brand awareness, etc.

### 3. Assign impact scores:
For each task, assign an impact score based on your established criteria. You can use a numerical scale, for example from 1 to 10, to score each task according to its relative importance.

### 4. Measure actual results:
Collect quantitative data to assess the actual results of your tasks over a given period. Use key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the impact of each task. For example, if you work in marketing, you can measure the return on investment (ROI) of different campaigns.

### 5. Identify high-impact tasks:
Using impact scores and actual results, identify the tasks that have the greatest impact on your business goals. These are usually the 20% of tasks that generate 80% of your results.

### 6. Prioritize high-impact tasks:
Give these high-impact tasks top priority in your schedule and projects. Ensure that these essential activities receive the bulk of your time and attention.

### 7. Eliminate or delegate low-impact tasks:
Low-impact tasks, which have little impact on your objectives, can often be eliminated or delegated to other team members if possible. This frees up time and energy to focus on what really matters.

### 8. Evaluate regularly and adjust:
Pareto's principle is not fixed, and high-impact tasks can change over time. So it's essential to regularly re-evaluate your task list, adjusting impact scores according to actual results, and making sure you stay focused on what's most important for your professional career.

## Pareto's principle: examples

To better understand how to apply Pareto's principle in everyday life, here are a few concrete examples:

- If you're an entrepreneur, identify the 20% of your customers who generate 80% of your revenue and focus your marketing efforts on them.
- If you're studying for an exam, identify the 20% of subjects that make up 80% of the exam content and spend more time revising them.
- If you're looking to improve your fitness, identify the 20% of exercises that produce 80% of your results and incorporate them into your training program.

In conclusion, Pareto's principle is a powerful tool for optimizing your time management. By identifying and prioritizing the tasks that have the greatest impact, you can save time and achieve your goals more effectively. So put this 80/20 rule into practice in your life and enjoy the benefits of time management based on Pareto's principle.

## Pareto's principle and meetings

Pareto's principle can be a valuable guide to optimizing business meetings. By focusing on the key topics that generate the most impact, using time efficiently and eliminating unnecessary discussion, meetings can become more productive, saving participants valuable time for other essential activities. The key lies in identifying and putting into practice the 20% of factors that generate 80% of desired meeting results.

## Applying Pareto's principle with tools

WEDO software is a valuable tool for anyone wishing to apply Pareto's principle to time management. It enables you to prioritize, plan, track and analyze your tasks efficiently, helping you to save time by concentrating on what matters most. By using WEDO in conjunction with Pareto's principle, you can maximize your productivity and achieve your goals faster.

The principle states that, in many situations, around 80% of the results are generated by 20% of the causes. In other words, a minority of efforts produce the majority of results. 

This image represents the Pareto principle with an unbalanced scale showing 20 and 80, illustrating the 80/20 rule on a blue-purple background

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The Pareto Principle

The Association of Swiss Professional Photographers and Film Creators (SBF) is at the heart of Switzerland's visual world and is particularly distinguished by its commitment to the quality of its images. Through a combination of professionalism, innovation and artistic competence, the SBF represents the interests of its members (approximately 700 in Switzerland) while promoting excellence.

André Oldani, member of the national board and financial officer of the association, explains to us how WEDO has acted as a catalyst for SBF's digital transformation.

## What tools did you use to ensure collaboration within your association before integrating WEDO ?

Different tools were used. In fact, the different regional sections organised themselves and different tools were used depending on the chair or department. Since 2020/2021, I have launched an initiative to digitize and harmonize the different regional structures.

## What were the limitations in using these different tools?

There was no synchronizsation between the different software programmes and our work lacked structure.

## How do you use the WEDO tool nowadays?

At national level, we use WEDO for the meetings of the management body and the assembly of delegates. With WEDO, we can keep track of tasks from one meeting to the next, making sure we don't forget anything. We also use WEDO's storage space to store our files centrally and securely.

At section level, i.e. regional level, WEDO is not yet integrated everywhere, but the goal is that every section or division will work exclusively with WEDO in the future. This will also make it easier to work with the Executive Committee, as everything will be centralised in one place.

## How was the integration of the tool accepted by your members? 

Generally very positive. As it is a new software, of course you have to learn how to use it, but it is very "userfriendly".

## How does WEDO help your company with digitalization?

WEDO has helped us to digitize mainly at the level of meetings and tasks. The fact that everything is centralized allows us to manage data more efficiently. To be honest, WEDO is an important part of the association’s digitization strategy.

## Which functionalities of WEDO are used most often and why?

We use the meeting tool a lot because we can coordinate and document our meetings and also for traceability reasons. We also use tasks to unify the way we work and have everything in one place. File storage is also used for the same reasons as tasks.

## What advantages does your association have by using WEDO?

Thanks to WEDO, we save a lot of time. Tracking tasks, decisions and meetings is greatly simplified. As everything is consolidated on a single platform, we have a clear overview of the association's tasks.

André Oldani, member of the national board and financial officer of the association, explains to us how WEDO has acted as a catalyst for SBF's digital transformation.

This is a testimonial from André Oldani, Financial Manager of the SBF association, stating that WEDO is a cornerstone of the association’s digital strategy

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Interview with André Oldani on the digitisation of SBF

Fribourg SME WEDO is doing well and has decided to consolidate its place in the Swiss economy by changing its legal form. The former Llc is proud of its new name, WEDO Ltd, even though the founders have no intention of opening up the company's shares to external investors for now.

After swapping the initial domain name wedo.swiss for [wedo.com](https://wedo.com/) a few months ago, the company is now pursuing a strategy of consolidating its assets for serene and ambitious growth.

**A team with international ambitions**

Founded in 2015 by Fribourg-based David Dutch and Antoine Sudan, the company now has 14 employees based in Fribourg and Zurich, including four recruits in 2022 alone. Working in high value-added jobs such as Full Stack Developer (3 of whom trained at the Fribourg School of Engineering), Digital Marketing Specialist, Business Developer, or Customer Success Manager, these employees contribute to the wealth of a secure, high-performance software product. Recruitment accelerated in 2022, intending to build a team of 20 employees by 2024. Widely adopted in French-speaking Switzerland, WEDO has been gaining ground in German-speaking Switzerland since the hiring of Business Developers in 2020. Our ambition is to continue our expansion in German-speaking Switzerland and internationally.

WEDO Ltd operates mainly in Switzerland, covering various industries, including healthcare, the public sector, finance, and construction. Today, WEDO is used by some 500 organizations in 18 different sectors.

![Employees_en.png](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/Employees_en_5676cb8f03.png)

The transformation of WEDO from a limited liability company to a public limited company is part of this growth strategy. By increasing its share capital, WEDO aims to reassure and establish the credibility of its business model. It's a business model that quickly proved to be a winner and which has more or less retained its initial structure since the beginning of the adventure: a system of annual subscriptions paid per user, giving access to the platform's full range of functions.

![Chronology_en.png](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/Chronology_en_6c2afd656f.png)

**Next steps**

In addition to its capital increase and the long-awaited acquisition of wedo.com, the development teams have recently focused on extending the platform's functionality. While the platform defied all competition regarding meeting management, it will soon launch a new, more powerful version for project management, ready to challenge its American competitors.

Fribourg SME WEDO is doing well and has decided to consolidate its place in the Swiss economy by changing its legal form.

White rounded-rectangle card with a green border displaying “WEDO Ltd becomes WEDO Ltd” and a green seal labeled “NEWS” on a white background

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WEDO Llc becomes WEDO Ltd


Our recent LinkedIn survey revealed that almost 40% of respondents associate the ineffectiveness of a meeting with the lack of decisions made, while 34% point the finger at the participants' lack of preparation.

Indeed, meetings dictate our weeks and petrify our calendars. However, they remain a central element in collaboration and mark the echelons of project management.

In this article, we address these issues and suggest a few best practices that will have the advantage of optimizing your meetings.



## Problem n°1: Promoting decision-making at meetings

### 🎯 Systematically setting objectives

The meeting leader must be clear about the objectives of the meeting. Depending on the objectives and their deadlines, it is important to systematically [define in advance the decisions to be taken](https://help.wedo.com/en/articles/6877940-voting-decision-preparing-the-decision-on-a-vote) and mention them in the agenda. 

### 🗣️  Assign decision-making authority 

It is advisable to define a meeting moderator or to [assign responsibility for each topic to a specific person](https://help.wedo.com/en/articles/5747620-define-the-presenter-of-a-topic). In this way, this person ensures that the matter reaches a decision before moving on to the next item. 

### 🗳️  Putting to the vote 

Decision-making can be facilitated by [voting](https://help.wedo.com/en/articles/6877940-voting-decision-preparing-the-decision-on-a-vote). When a decision is taken within a group, voting can  reach a collegial decision. Voting puts an end to endless discussion and allows the group to move on to the next issue.  

### ✅   Formalizing decision-making 

It's important to record decisions clearly in the minutes. The [record of any decision must be easily accessible](https://help.wedo.com/en/articles/2614315-view-all-decisions-made-in-meetings) to avoid wasting time searching for information. 


##  Problem n°2: Encourage participants to prepare themselves

### 👀  Reading discussion material in advance

[Send information and documents](https://help.wedo.com/en/articles/5959542-share-a-meeting) dealing with the various topics in advance so that participants can prepare themselves. Reading the issues in advance ensures that they are dealt with more quickly, thus reducing the length of the meeting.   

### 🗓️  Initiate debate before the meeting

By mentioning any [questions or decisions](https://help.wedo.com/en/articles/5701398-types-of-blocks) to be made on the agenda, participants can prepare themselves for the debate.  

### 👤 Empowering participants

The meeting initiator does not have to run the entire session. On the contrary, by [appointing a member of staff as presenter](https://help.wedo.com/en/articles/5747620-define-the-presenter-of-a-topic) for a topic in which he or she is involved, he or she will by nature be better prepared and more responsible for managing the project. In addition, the change of presenter will have the advantage of giving the meeting a rhythm.

### ❎  Consistency in the participation of certain employees

A lack of preparation or investment on the part of an employee can sometimes mean that his or her presence is perhaps not relevant.

![Préparation d'un ordre du jour](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/ca_preparer_odj_d6adef1deb.png)


Collaborative upstream work can radically improve meeting productivity and participant involvement. 

WEDO is a cloud-based solution that enables all team and company members to manage their meeting agendas. Agenda items and content are automatically transferred from one meeting to the next, ensuring the traceability of projects, tasks and decisions. 

The platform is compatible with the management of all types of meetings, from board meetings to HR meetings, as well as regular or exceptional project management sessions.


::button-primary[Request a free demo]{link="/demo"}


Our recent LinkedIn survey revealed that almost 40% of respondents associate the inefficiency of a meeting with the lack of decisions made, while 34% point the finger at the lack of preparation on the part of participants.

This article addresses these issues and suggests a few best practices to optimize your meetings.

This image highlights two common disruptors in meetings, shown with an icon of a frowning person on a purple background

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What are the main disruptive elements in our meetings?

## The organization of a Board of Directors

Companies in any field frequently meet with their board of directors to agree on major strategic decisions. This formal meeting must be well organized and conducted efficiently to facilitate the exchange and communication with the board members. It is, therefore, essential to use the necessary digital tools to improve the organization and follow-up of these meetings. These technological solutions must meet security requirements to allow secure communication and access.
Do you need help to ensure effective follow-up and organization of your board meetings? Then, we have the solution to help you!
WEDO is a meeting management tool that lends itself perfectly to preparing and monitoring boards of directors for many reasons. We suggest you discover 7 steps that show you how our collaborative platform supports the organization of Boards of Directors.

 🗓️ 👩‍💼👨‍💼🧑‍💼

## 1. Prepare your CA

### 📂 Organize the documents

If you are involved in preparing for your company's Board of Directors meetings, first organize all the documents that will be presented at the meeting, such as financial reports, sales reports, and marketing updates. Ensuring all documents are well-given, complete, and easy to understand is essential.

###  ✍🏻 Prepare reports

If you are responsible for presenting reports, prepare them well before the meeting. Ensure they are clear, and concise and contain all the relevant information for the meeting.

###  ❔ Identify key issues

Finally, before the meeting, identify the key issues or areas of concern that will be addressed during the session. Then, be prepared to offer ideas, suggestions, or recommendations if necessary.

Once you have prepared these initial points, focus on establishing the topics discussed at the meeting: your agenda.

##  2. Set the agenda

###  📣 Determine what topics to address

Topics discussed at board meetings may vary depending on the organization. They may include:

- financial reports;
- operational updates; and
- Strategic planning;
- Risk management;
- legal compliance;
- Ongoing projects;
- Voting;
- and other matters of importance to the organization.

###  📋 Create your base frame

The items discussed are often the same from one board to the next. Be sure to identify recurring themes to save valuable time preparing for future meetings.

###  🗣️ Choose theme presenters

The speakers may vary depending on the theme. Therefore, it is essential to define who should prepare the agenda items or simply who will be the presenters of the topic. This will reinforce the collaborative aspect of the preparation of the meeting. All members will be involved in the upcoming session.

###  📎 Joignez les fichiers aux bonnes thématiques

Au préalable, l’idée est de préparer les documents et rapports à partager avec votre CA. Prenez le temps en amont d’également les joindre aux différentes thématiques de votre ordre du jour afin que les participants puissent les lire et les annoter avant le jour J. Une réunion bien préparée améliorera son efficacité ! 

##  3. Manage access to the meeting

It is expected that access to a CA meeting needs to be finely managed to choose who can see what and especially when. If your tool allows it, try to control the access to the meeting and the role of your participants according to its stages. This will enable you to prepare your agenda according to these different rights and not worry about access beyond the preparation. Determine who are editors, readers, or those who do not have access.

##  4. Integrate the votes

#### 🗳️ Determine voters

Choose who is allowed to vote. Then determine how you will collect the results. Different options are possible:

- digital votes by each voter ;
- a show of hands during the session;
- and collecting votes, with the secretary transcribing the results at the end of the meeting.

####  ☑️ Allocate shares

Voting is integral to the Board of Directors' process since members are often asked to vote on strategic decisions affecting the company. Therefore, be sure to allocate shares according to the decision-making weight of each voter.

####  🟢 Require quorum

In the event of a vote, and if you have allocated shares, you must verify at the beginning of each board meeting that a quorum is present. A quorum is the minimum number of shares based on those present at the meeting.

####  👤 Allow anonymous voting

Determine for a meeting whether you will allow anonymous voting. This should be determined before the meeting, or at least before voting opens.

####  🚫 Hide voting results until close

Depending on the internal operation, it may be necessary to hide the votes until they are closed. Ensure this is the case for the votes processed during your board of directors.

####  🔨 Write pre-decisions

To save time processing the votes, you can write the pre-decisions resulting from them. This is possible if you can imagine the outcomes of the votes. You can prepare a pre-decision for each possible answer. 

##  5. Write the minutes

###  💻 Writing by the Secretary

For this very formal meeting, the writing of the minutes is usually entrusted to a secretary. Here is how this person will compose their minutes.

#### ✍🏻 Paragraphs

Add well-structured paragraphs to reflect the discussions in the plenary. The idea is to proceed systematically and be as transparent as possible while favoring a simple style and short sentences. Think about your future readers from the start!

#### 🗳️ Votes

During the drafting process, validate the votes prepared beforehand and decide on the final decision.

#### 🔨 Decisions

Highlight essential decisions made during the board meeting. The idea is that from the minutes, each member can see all the strategic decisions that the meeting has decided upon.

#### ✅ Tasks

Make a clear list of tasks that flow from the decisions approved by the board. You can also already assign tasks to the people in charge, determining their priority and due date. By doing this, you will have your members up and running by the end of the meeting. Then, everyone knows what needs to be done and by when.

###  👀 Private note-taking by members

####  ✏️ Add private notes to the minutes

Encourage your members to prepare in advance by taking private notes. The idea is also to have them write their notes and comments during the meeting to ensure they understand what is expected.

####  📝 Annotate attached files

The notes can also be added directly to the files and documents attached to the agenda and meeting minutes. The goal is for members to find their written interventions exactly where they belong.

##  6. Follow up on tasks

Track the progress of tasks from one meeting to the next to ensure that deadlines are met. Then, if your tool allows it, simply import your tasks into the next meeting's agenda to see if they were completed on time.

##  7. Give access to the minutes

At the end of the meeting and after the proofreading stage, control access to the minutes so that each member can review the minutes of the discussions. This will allow members to record everything that was discussed during the meeting. At the end, share the minutes with all members to encourage them to review them as soon as possible after the board meeting.

##  ✅ WEDO's advantages for your CA management

We talked earlier about the importance of choosing an excellent tool to manage and track the progress of your board meetings. WEDO develops the ideal collaborative platform for efficient meeting management. So why will our solution be your best ally for board meetings? Here is a summary:

**📋 You collaboratively prepare your agenda.**
![bod-prepare-agenda.png](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/bod_prepare_agenda_7476ddda20.png)

**🔐 You manage access to the meeting.**
![bod-access-meeting.png](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/bod_access_meeting_ac15c4df9d.png)

**🗳️ You integrate the votes into your board.**
![bod-votes.png](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/bod_votes_c631be7608.png)

**⌨️ You write your report in real-time directly on the platform and allow the participants to take their private notes.**
![ca-writing-minutes.png](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/ca_writing_minutes_7aa178ad22.png)

**✅ You track tasks from one meeting to the next by importing ongoing and completed tasks.**
![bod-tasks-tracking.png](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/bod_tasks_tracking_21b36c4285.png)

**👀 You provide access to the minutes directly after the meeting and email them to members from the platform.**
![ca-access-meeting-minutes.png](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/ca_access_meeting_minutes_b8cb3e8b91.png)

>**Do you want to test WEDO for your next board meeting? Then, our experts will introduce you to the tool and help you prepare your first agenda in 30 minutes.**

::button-primary[Contact our experts]{link="/demo"}

## Some examples of our clients who use WEDO to manage their board of directors
![wedo-customer-board-of-directors.png](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/wedo_customer_board_of_directors_d91a634e29.png)



Efficiently organize & conduct board meetings w/ WEDO - a secure, digital meeting management tool. Enhance communication & follow-up with our 7-step collaborative platform.

Four professionals in business attire discussing around a conference table, with a woman speaking, overlaid with the text “Organize your Board meetings” and “Use case”

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Organize your Board of Directors with WEDO

Today, there is more public interest in the activities of the financial industry than ever before. Data protection is essential to prevent cyberattacks that can lead to data breaches, financial losses, and reputational damage. The banking and financial industries must invest in robust data security measures: employee training, access controls, encryption, and regular assessments are essential to any effective strategy.

Last November, the business management software "Winbiz", was the victim of a virulent cyberattack leading to the temporary shutdown of the software. The software host was storing sensitive information.

The software used by organizations represents a significant risk. Today, cloud platforms are considered as irreplaceable allies of administrative professions: they help us manage human resources, track projects, share files and content, build a customer history, etc. However, each more sensitive than the last, this data must be subject to strict and robust measures to prevent cyber threats and to comply with regulatory requirements.

The advent of telecommuting in recent years reinforces the importance of data protection through the software employees use. Thus, the choice of software must be documented for a secure integration. The criteria to be taken into account during the selection are the following:


### Data hosting

#### Data storage location:

Some companies are surprised to learn that their data is stored in a third country. SaaS provider is free to host their data in any country they choose, regardless of where their headquarters are located. Knowing the hosting country is crucial to ensure that the country in question has strong, strict and transparent legal and political stability.

If the data is stored in a trustworthy country, ensuring that the provider does not practice "temporary data transfer" is also relevant. This phenomenon, more frequently used by global IT providers, implies that the data passes through foreign servers before being stored in Switzerland. It is, therefore, essential to verify that this transfer is legal and complies with GDPR standards.

#### Reliability of the hosting provider:

Certifications standardize the information security of web hosts. Among them, the most recognized certification is ISO/IEC 27001.


### Data protection certification

Companies that outsource their critical systems and processes need to ensure that vendors have strict, independent controls over data management. One such independent certification is SOC 2, issued by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and used by organizations in the software-as-a-service (SaaS) industry. It assures customers that the organization has designed and implemented adequate controls for security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. This standard has existed in the United States for many years and has a worldwide equivalent in ISO 270001.

![soc certification.png](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/Frame_7soc_certification_3fa9275dcb.png)

Switzerland is considered to be behind the US and the rest of Europe concerning SOC 2 reporting. The first significant moves towards certification were made by large companies subject to strict regulations, such as the financial sector. These companies require their service providers to comply with the SOC 2 standard and provide an annual report to meet internal and external requirements. *1

### Authentication and account access

Software of any kind is a critical source of information for an organization. Thus, access to the tool must be secure, so it is recommended to inquire about the availability of the following features:

- Availability of two-factor authentication
- Availability of SAML authentication, if relevant for the customer
- Possibility of managing rights in a personalized way within the tool, in order to only give access to information to the persons concerned.

### Encryption

If a company uses a web application, it must ensure that the app in question uses an HTTPS connection secured by SSL certificates to prevent espionage on the web and email correspondence. In addition to encryption in transit, data encryption at rest prevents a situation like the one experienced by WinBiz and its customers.

### WEDO: the secure solution for collaboration in the financial sector

Sensitive topics and privacy policies are at the heart of employees' daily tasks in the financial industry. From task management to the content of all kinds of meetings, such as team meetings, bilateral talks, customer/insurer meetings, and board meetings, the traceability of discussions is as crucial as their discretion.

The WEDO SaaS software, developed and hosted in Switzerland, is a collaborative platform designed to address security challenges in sensitive sectors. Thanks to its task manager and its customizable meeting module, the platform makes it possible to share files and centralize the information necessary for team collaboration while giving the possibility to configure the access rights of each user.


::button-secondary[Learn more about security]{link="/security"}


## They trusted WEDO to manage their internal collaboration:
![wedo-customer-board-of-directors.png](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/wedo_customer_board_of_directors_d91a634e29.png)

::button-primary[Schedule a live demo]{link="/demo"}



::button-primary[Try WEDO for free]{link="/signup"}

[^2]: Source : [KPMG](https://kpmg.com/ch/de/blogs/home/posts/2021/01/soc-switzerland.html)

Today, there is more public interest in the activities of the financial industry than ever before. Data protection is essential to prevent cyberattacks that can lead to data breaches, financial losses, and reputational damage.

Green illustration under the heading “SECURITY” featuring a large shield with a lock at its center, surrounded by banknotes, stacks of coins, and a wallet, with two people interacting: one holding a coin overhead and the other sitting on the shield working on a laptop

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Collaborate securely in the financial sector

In this article published in the April 2023 issue of PME Magazine | Focus IT & Digital, we discuss the place of people in an environment that is becoming increasingly digital.

(Article only available in French)

![article dans le PME MAGAZINE | Digitaliser au profit de l’humain](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/2903_PME_IT_1_19_1_91e9506501.png)

Digitizing, yes, but with the aim of raising the human element. David Dutch and Antoine Sudan, creators of the WEDO software, have always wanted to put the human element at the heart of the digitalization process of a company.

Team of four professionals seated around a conference table in a high-rise office, smiling and interacting, overlaid with the “PME” logo and the WEDO logo

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PME MAGAZINE | Digitalising for the benefit of people

It's time to get out the brooms and rags to do spring cleaning in your task lists and work environment! Take the opportunity to throw out anything that is no longer needed, update what needs to be updated and focus on the most critical tasks.

Sorting and cleaning your to-do lists will have a beneficial effect on your productivity. All you have to do is block off an hour in your calendar, pour yourself a cup of coffee, start your favorite playlist, and get to work!

## Here are some steps to get your projects in order:

1. Make a list of all your current tasks - this will allow you to see the scope of your current and upcoming projects so you can anticipate a possible lack of resources and prevent potential delays. For more clarity in tracking your projects, it is recommended to use a task manager that will allow you to centralize your tasks and those of your colleagues.
2. Prioritize your tasks - this will help you focus on the most critical tasks with the shortest due dates and the most severe consequences for poor execution.
3. Evaluate your tasks - ask yourself if all tasks are necessary, still relevant, or could be updated or deleted.
4. Eliminate redundant or unnecessary tasks - free up time and resources to focus on more important tasks.
5. Update your tasks - if they need updating, change them to keep them relevant.
6. Delegate - if a task doesn't seem relevant to your skills or job description, discuss with your colleagues and supervisors whether you should delegate it to a colleague.

Beyond your task lists, you can extend your spring cleaning to your work environment. Get rid of unnecessary things and rethink your organization to make a fresh start.

1. Spend a few minutes on your personal storage space, such as a locker or drawer. File or scan documents that must be filed to eliminate unnecessary or non-functional items.
2. Your mind will be lightened with an orderly workstation. To do this, sort out your desk. Put away your documents, throw away pens that haven't had ink in months, and collect all your *Post-its* and notes encroaching on your space. A digitalized task and note manager is highly recommended to avoid forgetting information written on loose sheets.
3. Sort out your computer desktop. Computer screens are often overwhelmed with files left there "momentarily" Here is an opportunity to sort or delete them to rediscover your desktop.

Spring cleaning is a rite of passage that guarantees guaranteed satisfaction and well-being, even if sometimes perceived as a chore.

If you want to digitalize, centralize and manage tasks collaboratively within your company, request a free demo of the WEDO collaborative platform.

::button-primary[Schedule a live demo]{link="/demo"}

It's time to get out the brooms and rags to do spring cleaning in your task lists and work environment! Discover our tips.

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Task Management: The Big Spring Clean!

## What is agility?

According to Jérôme Barrand, head of the Institute of Organisational Agility in Grenoble, agility is the capacity of a company to be reactive, flexible and innovative. It must also be able to anticipate future changes in order to adapt to them. It cannot wait for the environment in which it operates to force it to do so.

To be able to face these challenges, human-sized work teams must be learning, connected and autonomous. The aim is for everyone to find their place in the team and thus have a global vision of the company's organisational systems. Also, the agile culture advocates a light but sufficient hierarchical framework. The human element as well as communication are central to the organisation[^1] [^2]

## SCRUM method

Different methods exist to help companies in their quest for agility. SCRUM, which originated in the IT world, but which is becoming more and more popular, is one of them and is very widespread. This iterative and adaptive method always seeks a collective optimum[^3]

The first form of SCRUM appeared in an article by Takeuchi and Nonaka in 1986. They compare the so-called traditional approach to "a relay race" and the so-called holistic approach to "a rugby scrum" (SCRUM). "The relay race is a development process where teams of specialists pass the baton to each other once they have completed their task.  In contrast, in the "rugby" approach, where specialists try to complete the task by passing the ball from back to front (as in a rugby team), the development process is totally different. [^4]

Indeed, the SCRUM method, officially developed by Ken Schwaber and Jeff Sutherland a few years after this first article, is based on short cycles called "sprints". These usually last between one and four weeks. Each sprint begins with a planning meeting where the team defines the goals to be achieved and the tasks to be accomplished. During the sprint, the team works independently to achieve the defined goals. Every day, the team meets for a short follow-up meeting called "Daily SCRUM". During this meeting, each team member presents what they have accomplished since the last meeting and what they plan to do during the day.

At the end of each sprint, the team meets for a retrospective, during which they evaluate their progress and look for ways to improve the development process for the next sprints.

The SCRUM method is particularly useful for projects that are subject to frequent changes or where it is difficult to plan all the details in advance. It allows for rapid delivery of high quality products, close collaboration between team members and better responsiveness to changes. [^5]

Unlike traditional project methods, SCRUM does not plan years in advance and present a solution only at the end of the project. The goal of SCRUM is to divide the business requirements into the smallest possible increments and thus deliver many, finished results in short intervals. In this way, it is possible to take action after each sprint should a requirement or priority change. This not only saves time and costs, but also keeps the process agile and customer-oriented.

## Why WEDO is ideal for an agile company

In accordance with the above explanations, it is understood that the agile method is in fact a culture and a state of mind that must be spread throughout the company. David Preti, in his article "Doing Agile" versus "Being Agile", also shares this vision:

>Agility is not defined by a set of practices, but rather by a state of mind that one cultivates.   [^6]

WEDO presents itself as the ideal tool to cultivate this mindset and share an agile culture within the company. Indeed, thanks to WEDO, it is possible to efficiently manage the different types of meetings of the SCRUM method, but not only. The collaborative platform also allows you to be permanently connected to information and to your team members. Whether you are working from home or from the office, communication is easy. In addition, WEDO's teams and workspaces make the company more responsive and better organised. Each team member can easily consult their tasks and have a clear overview of what they have to do. This task overview can also be displayed in Kanban view, which is particularly useful for project management.

## The limits of the agile method

But then why hasn't the agile method, which sounds so beneficial in theory, already found its way into all companies?

The fifteenth edition of the State of Agile report, produced by the company [digital.ai](https://digital.ai/), provides some answers. According to the report, the main problems identified by more than 1,380 people worldwide in the adoption and practice of agile are the following:

- Inconsistent processes and practices between teams - 46%.
- Organisational culture not aligned with agile values - 43%.
- Resistance to change from the overall organisation - 42%.
- Lack of competence/experience with agile methods - 42%.
- Insufficient leadership involvement - 41%.
- Insufficient management support and sponsorship - 40%.

The report states that the main challenges mentioned above have remained largely unchanged in recent years. [^7]

Interestingly, then, these problems are not new and unknown. Other articles on this topic also point out the same limitations.

In summary, it is essential for a company that wants to implement agility sustainably into its structure to consider the points mentioned above. The list is certainly not exhaustive, but it will help the company avoid certain mistakes on its way to agility. One thing is certain: agility is a real challenge, and as the saying goes, "it's worth the effort".


**Sources :**

[^1]: BARRAND, Jérôme, 2010. L’entreprise agile : agir pour une performance durable. Paris : Dunod. Stratégies et management. ISBN 978-2-10-054346-5. 658.515.

[^2]: BARRAND, Jérôme, 2012. Le manager agile : agir autrement pour la survie des entreprises. 2e éd. Paris : Dunod. Stratégies et management. ISBN 978-2-10-057460-5. 658.401.

[^3]: SCHMITT, Christophe, 2016. De la complexité de l’action dans les organisations. ISBN 978-2-940384-36-05.

[^4]: TAKEUCHI, Hirotaka et NONAKA, Ikujiro, 1986. Stop running the relay race and take up rugby. Harvard Business Review. 1986. pp. 11.

[^5]: SCHWABER, Ken et SUTHERLAND, Jeff, 2020. The Scrum Guide:The Definitive Guide to Scrum: The Rules of the Game. novembre 2020.

[^6]: PRETI, David, « Faire de l’Agilité » versus « être Agile » - Blogue Savoir Agile. [en ligne]. [Consulté le 6 décembre 2022]. Disponible à l’adresse : [https://savoiragile.com/2017/02/07/faire-de-lagilite-versus-etre-agile/](https://savoiragile.com/2017/02/07/faire-de-lagilite-versus-etre-agile/)

[^7]: [DIGITAL.AI](http://digital.ai/), 2021. 15th Annual State Of Agile Report. 2021.

In a world where everything is moving fast and change is permanent, a company must be agile. This article will explain how to become more agile in order to better face this growing complexity.

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When agility becomes a necessity

Trello

Asana

Decisions

Monday.com

eSéances

MS Teams

MS Planner

OneNote

Every day, we juggle a series of tasks, from answering emails and attending meetings all the way to cooking dinner or finally folding that pile of laundry staring us down for days. Task management is everywhere around us, whether we realize it or not. 

But here's the catch: managing tasks is more than checking boxes. It's making sure the right boxes are checked at the right time, by the right people.

For individuals, good task management can mean less stress and more time to spend on what matters most to them. For teams and organizations, it's the difference between controlled chaos and seamless collaboration. When done well, task management becomes a superpower, moving businesses toward growth and ensuring projects are delivered on time (and with fewer sleepless nights).

In this guide, we're going to explore strategies, tools, and best practices that turn task management into a fine-tuned system. Whether you're wrangling your own to-do list or leading a team toward big goals, this can be your roadmap to staying on top of your game. 

Let's get started!


The Ultimate Guide to Task Management: Strategies, Tools, and Best Practices

Managing a remote team sounds simple: set tasks, assign owners, and let everyone work from anywhere.

In reality, remote task management brings its own unique set of challenges. Without a shared office space, staying aligned on priorities, deadlines, and progress can quickly turn into a juggling act.

Scattered communication, delayed updates, unclear ownership; these problems can slow down even the most capable teams. Project managers and team members alike often find themselves buried under emails, toggling between tools, or struggling to track progress across different projects.

That’s why successful distributed teams don’t just rely on more meetings or more messaging apps. They need a collaborative task management system that helps everyone stay organized, prioritize tasks, and work together effectively, no matter where they are.

[WEDO](https://wedo.com/features) simplifies remote task management by bringing meetings, tasks, projects, and collaboration into one intuitive platform, so teams can spend less time managing work and more time making real progress.

![Remote task management infographic contrasting what gets in the way versus what works, including task ownership, communication, and progress tracking.](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/remote_task_management_what_gets_in_the_way_vs_what_works_en_1c8364b117.png)

## The Challenges of Remote Task Management

Managing tasks across a distributed team creates challenges around visibility, accountability, and alignment. Without a shared office space, communication gaps tend to grow quickly, and small problems compound over time.

Here are some of the key difficulties remote teams face when managing tasks:

**1. Unclear task assignment**

Without a consistent system, team members can lose track of who owns which task and when it is due. As a result, important work can be delayed or forgotten altogether.

**2. Difficulty monitoring progress**

Project managers often have to chase updates through scattered emails and chats. Without a centralized place to check progress, it becomes harder to make informed decisions or adjust priorities.

**3. Disorganized file sharing**

Documents often live across email threads, chat messages, and cloud folders. It becomes easy to lose track of the latest versions or miss important attachments that should have been connected to specific tasks.

**4. Complex projects without a high-level view**

Remote teams working on large initiatives struggle to see how tasks connect to bigger goals. Without clear visual workflows, it is easy to miss dependencies and deadlines that impact the entire project.

**5. Collaboration slowed by scattered communication**

When discussions happen across too many channels without being tied to specific tasks, collaboration becomes inefficient. Important information is buried, and follow-ups get missed.

## What Remote Teams Need to Manage Tasks Effectively

Solving the challenges of remote [task management](https://wedo.com/features/tasks) starts with the right foundation. Teams need more than just communication tools or shared drives. They need a system that brings clarity, accountability, and structure into their daily work.

Here are the core elements that help distributed teams manage tasks successfully:

### Clear task ownership and accountability

Every task should have a single owner, a due date, and clear expectations. Teams work faster when there is no confusion about who is responsible for the next step.

### Flexible ways to manage and view tasks

Different projects require different approaches. Some teams work best with Kanban boards, others prefer structured lists or timeline views. A flexible task management tool makes it easier to adapt based on the project’s complexity.

### Templates for recurring workflows

Repeatable processes, such as onboarding or reporting, should not start from scratch every time. [Checklist templates](https://wedo.com/features/tasks) help teams launch recurring workflows faster and reduce the risk of missing critical steps.

### Integrated collaboration

Meetings, tasks, files, and conversations should live in the same system. Scattered tools slow teams down and create more work. Integrated collaboration keeps everything tied to real action items.

### An intuitive interface that remote teams can use immediately

A [task management app](https://wedo.com/features/tasks) should make it easier to organize work, not harder. Remote teams need an intuitive platform that simplifies navigation, speeds up adoption, and reduces training time.

Strong remote task management depends on having the right systems in place. Teams that can assign tasks clearly, track work visually, and collaborate in context are much more likely to stay organized and deliver projects on time. WEDO was built around these core needs, helping teams manage tasks more clearly and collaborate more effectively from anywhere.

## Why WEDO’s Task Management Platform Stands Out for Distributed Teams

![Infographic showing the structure of a high-value recurring meeting with agenda, responsibilities, and outcomes.](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/the_structure_of_a_high_value_recurring_meeting_en_35539fea09.png)

Distributed teams need more than shared drives and endless chat threads to stay on track. To manage work effectively from anywhere, they need a platform that connects meetings, tasks, collaboration, and progress tracking in one place, without adding complexity. WEDO was designed for this exact environment.

Here’s how WEDO helps remote teams manage tasks and projects with clarity, consistency, and confidence:

### Complete task and project organization in one platform

[WEDO](https://wedo.com/features) brings meetings, tasks, project tracking, and file sharing together in a single workspace. Teams can create collaborative agendas, assign action items during the meeting, and track progress afterward without jumping between tools.

Tasks are assigned in real time during discussions, with responsibilities, due dates, and attachments captured on the spot. Participants can contribute directly to meeting minutes, review agendas in advance, and access signed summaries afterward to stay aligned on what was decided. Electronic signature functionality also supports remote validation, providing a complete record without requiring anyone to be physically present.

Every task is linked to its original context, whether created [during a meeting](https://wedo.com/features/meetings) or in a project workspace, so nothing gets lost, misfiled, or forgotten.

### Flexible task management for simple and complex projects

Not every team or project works the same way. WEDO supports a range of task views to suit different needs, from structured lists for detailed workflows to [Kanban boards](https://wedo.com/blog/what-is-a-kanban-board-tools-apps-and-project-use-cases-explained) for visual tracking and Gantt charts for timeline-based planning.

These views are shared across the team and updated in real time, making it easy for everyone to see priorities, dependencies, and responsibilities at a glance. Tasks can be filtered, reorganized, and adjusted as projects evolve, without introducing confusion or duplication.

### Standardized workflows with shareable checklist templates

When processes are repeated across teams or locations, standardization saves time and reduces risk. WEDO’s checklist templates make it easy to build repeatable workflows for tasks like onboarding, audits, or monthly reports.

Each template includes predefined steps, assigned owners, and deadlines, so teams don’t have to start from scratch. Templates can be shared across teams or departments, helping distributed organizations maintain consistency and quality from one site to the next. Progress is tracked in real time, so it’s always clear what’s done and what’s still in motion.

### Integrated file sharing and task-based collaboration

Files and conversations often get lost in email chains or disconnected tools. WEDO keeps everything in context by tying documents, comments, and notes directly to the tasks and meetings they support.

Team members can upload, annotate, and discuss documents within the platform, keeping collaboration focused and eliminating version control headaches. Whether it's a project brief or a checklist attachment, all materials are exactly where they need to be.

### Real-time updates, smart notifications, and mobile access

WEDO helps teams stay informed without creating noise. Smart notifications alert users to updates, comments, and task changes based on personal preferences, so people can stay in sync without constant check-ins.

The mobile app makes it easy to review progress, respond to updates, or manage tasks from anywhere, at home, on the road, or between meetings. And because WEDO supports asynchronous work, distributed teams can keep projects moving even across different time zones or schedules.

### Security, scalability, and performance built for modern teams

WEDO is hosted in secure, ISO-certified Swiss data centers and meets high standards for data protection and compliance. The platform scales with your organization, whether you’re managing a single team or coordinating large, multi-team initiatives.

It’s powerful enough to handle complex projects and user groups, yet intuitive enough that teams can adopt it quickly and start seeing value right away.

WEDO’s platform brings structure to remote collaboration, making it easier to plan, execute, and follow through without the friction of disconnected tools. It gives distributed teams the clarity they need to stay productive, aligned, and in control, no matter where they’re working from.

## Conclusion

Managing tasks across a distributed team requires more than communication and good intentions. It demands systems that keep work organized, maintain visibility across projects, and allow teams to collaborate effectively without creating additional complexity.

[WEDO](https://wedo.com/features) simplifies [remote task management](https://wedo.com/features/tasks) by bringing meetings, tasks, projects, and collaboration into one intuitive platform. Teams can organize their work through flexible views, automate recurring processes with checklist templates, track real-time progress with smart notifications, and manage project files in one centralized location. Features like Kanban boards, Gantt charts, and integrated file sharing provide the structure needed to run complex projects while remaining accessible enough for daily collaboration.

By combining clarity, flexibility, and ease of use, WEDO helps distributed teams [prioritize tasks](https://wedo.com/blog/guide-to-managing-and-prioritizing-your-daily-tasks), monitor progress, and keep projects running smoothly, no matter where team members are located.

If your team is ready to move beyond fragmented tools and manual workarounds, WEDO offers a smarter way to manage tasks and collaborate remotely.

[Start your free trial today](https://wedo.com/signup) and see how [WEDO](https://wedo.com/features) keeps distributed teams aligned, productive, and organized.

Simplify remote task management with WEDO. Organize tasks, track progress, and keep distributed teams aligned in one collaborative platform.

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How WEDO Simplifies Remote Task Management for Distributed Teams

Work gets done every day. But how does it get done? That’s often unclear.

Tasks are scattered across chats, emails, and meetings. Progress happens, but not always efficiently. A step gets skipped. Someone doubles up on work. Deadlines shift, and no one’s quite sure why.

That’s the cost of not having a workflow or not managing one well.

Workflow management basically creates a structure where there isn’t any. It helps teams follow a clear path, reduce back-and-forth, and finish what they start without wasting time.

Whether you're handling routine approvals, multi-step projects, or team-wide coordination, having a workflow and managing it well saves time, reduces confusion, and keeps things moving. This guide breaks down what workflow management actually means, why it matters more than most teams realize, and how the right tools can help you make it part of your everyday work.

## What Is Workflow Management, Really?

Workflow management means defining how work moves from start to finish. Each task has a purpose, a place in the process, and someone responsible for moving it forward. Instead of relying on memory, inboxes, or scattered notes, the steps are mapped out and visible to the team.

Every business process includes repeatable steps — reviewing documents, collecting approvals, and coordinating tasks. These patterns can be simple or complex, but they’re always easier to manage when clearly defined. That’s where workflow management helps. It brings structure to patterns so the work becomes more predictable, repeatable, and less stressful to complete.

Some workflows involve only a few steps. Others span departments, involve multiple people, or need progress tracking across tools. In all cases, clarity improves speed and reduces the chance of errors.

A good workflow management system or workflow management software helps teams put this structure into action. It helps teams create tasks with clear ownership, track progress as work moves, and keep everything visible without constant check-ins. Instead of repeating steps or missing deadlines, the team stays aligned and knows exactly where things stand.

## Why Managing Workflow Is Hard Without a System

Most teams don’t realize how much time they lose just figuring out what’s next. Without a clear system, work gets stuck in all the usual places: waiting on approval, missing a detail, assigned to the wrong person, or duplicated without anyone noticing.

The symptoms usually show up gradually: questions that get asked twice, updates that don’t match, deadlines that slip without warning. Everyone’s busy, but the results are scattered.

When teams rely on chat threads, spreadsheets, or memory to manage their process, things break down. There’s no shared view of what’s been done, what’s coming next, or where things are stuck. That’s where workflow management becomes more than a nice-to-have. It becomes the way to actually move work forward without extra effort.

Effective workflow management gives every task a place in the bigger picture. It reduces manual follow-ups, avoids redundant tasks, and keeps the team aligned. Updates happen in real time, so everyone sees the same status without needing to ask for it.

Even simple projects run smoother with structure. A shared process gives people clarity, frees up mental space, and removes the guesswork from daily work.

## The Two Core Workflow Types

Most workflows fall into one of two categories: sequential or parallel. Understanding the difference helps you design a process that actually works for your team and avoids unnecessary delays or confusion.

![Infographic in English showing the difference between sequential and parallel workflows with icons and examples.](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/sequential_vs_parallel_workflows_whats_the_difference_en_fa0f8230d8.png)

### Sequential workflows

A sequential workflow moves in a straight line. One task needs to be completed before the next one begins. This structure is common in processes like document approvals, content publishing, or expense reviews, where each step depends on what came before.

**For example:**

A new hire onboarding process might include setting up accounts, submitting paperwork, and assigning equipment. Each task happens in a specific order, and the next one only starts once the previous one is marked complete.

Sequential workflows are easy to follow and ideal when accuracy and order matter. But if they’re not tracked well, a single delay can stall the entire process.

### Parallel workflows

Parallel workflows allow multiple tasks to run at the same time. These are common when work spans departments or when different team members can make progress independently.

**For example:**

A product launch might involve writing content, designing assets, preparing sales materials, and scheduling announcements, all happening at once, but still part of the same project. Parallel workflows help teams move faster, but they also require coordination. Each task needs to be tracked clearly so nothing falls behind.

Both types of workflows require structure to work well. When teams can see what’s happening, what’s waiting, and who’s responsible, things get done faster and with fewer interruptions.

## What to Look for in a Workflow Management Tool

Not every tool that tracks tasks is built to manage workflows. A good workflow management tool should help you set up structure, follow progress easily, and adapt as your process changes. It should work for your team, not make the team work around the tool.

Here’s what to look for:

### ✔️ A clear layout that mirrors your process

Visual clarity makes a big difference. You should be able to see the steps of your workflow process at a glance. Tools that offer list views, board views, [Gantt charts](https://wedo.com/features/project-management), or drag-and-drop task movement make it easier to reflect the way your team actually works.

If your process involves stages like “To Review,” “Waiting on Feedback,” or “Complete,” your tool should let you build those into the workflow without needing a workaround.

### ✔️ Basic task management features that stay out of the way

At the core of any workflow is a set of tasks. You need to be able to create them quickly, assign them to a team member, add a due date, and mark them as done. These features should be easy to use, not hidden behind too many steps.

Some workflows are short and simple. Others include multiple team members, subtasks, and dependencies. Your tool should support all three without getting in the way.

### ✔️ Real-time visibility

When you update a task, reassign a step, or check something off, that change should show up immediately. Teams move quickly, and outdated information creates confusion. [Real time updates](https://wedo.com/features/meetings) reduce the need for follow-ups and help everyone see what’s actually going on.

### ✔️ Support for automation

Many workflows include steps that repeat every time, such as sending a reminder, assigning the next task, or changing the status when a condition is met. A tool that supports automated workflows can handle those repetitive steps without manual effort. This saves time and reduces errors in daily work.

### ✔️ Built to support different ways of working

Some teams follow a fixed process, step by step. Others run multiple tasks in parallel, with different people working at the same time. A good tool should support both. You should be able to map out your process as it really happens, not force it into a structure that doesn’t fit.

### ✔️ Customization that doesn’t require technical setup

The tool should let you build customized workflows that fit your team’s process. If you have to request admin access or rebuild the setup every time your process changes, the tool slows you down. Look for something that gives you control without extra layers.

### ✔️ Works across teams and scales with you

As your team grows or your work gets more complex, the tool should still work. A good workflow management system scales with your process, your team, and your priorities. That includes visibility across departments and features that don’t break down under pressure.

### ✔️ Cloud-based access that fits remote or hybrid teams

If your tool only works in one environment or on one device, that’s a limitation. A cloud-based system makes it easier for teams to work together, whether they’re in the same office or spread across time zones.

![Infographic in English highlighting the key elements of a good workflow management tool, including automation, visibility and cloud access.](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/what_to_consider_when_choosing_a_project_management_tool_en_d107067037.png)

## How WEDO Supports Smarter Workflows (Without Adding Complexity)

A workflow tool only works if the team actually uses it. [WEDO](https://wedo.com/features) gives teams structure without forcing them to change how they work. The features feel familiar, the setup is quick, and the process fits into your day, not the other way around.

In WEDO, every workspace gives you the tools to build and follow a clear process. You can organize tasks by stage, priority, or timeline using a flexible [kanban view](https://wedo.com/features), list, or [Gantt chart](https://wedo.com/features/project-management) view. It’s easy to move things with drag and drop, assign owners, and adjust task details as work moves forward.

Tasks aren’t floating around in isolation. They’re connected to your meetings, notes, and follow-ups. If an action item comes out of a team discussion, you can turn it into a task on the spot, with context already attached. No need to switch tools or manually copy over details.

Workflows can be simple or more structured. You can set up something sequential, where one [task depends on the next](https://wedo.com/features/tasks), or keep things open for parallel progress across team members. You don’t need to choose between flexibility and structure; WEDO handles both.

The platform supports real-time updates, clear ownership, and visibility across the team. And because it’s cloud-based, you can access your workflow from anywhere, whether you’re in a meeting, working remotely, or just trying to keep everything on track.

If your team is ready to streamline how work moves from start to finish, WEDO gives you the tools to do it, without adding extra complexity.

**Ready to make your workflows smarter and easier to manage?** Start your [WEDO free trial](https://wedo.com/signup) today.

Learn what workflow management really means, how it supports better teamwork, and how tools like WEDO help streamline everyday work.

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What Is Workflow Management and Why Does It Matter?

In the fast-paced world of administrative management, executive assistants play a crucial role. The Swiss army knives of any organization juggle many tasks and deadlines while supervising those of others. Faced with these challenges, they often find themselves overwhelmed by routine, repetitive responsibilities. We immersed ourselves in the daily lives of 6 executive assistants who use the WEDO platform to understand the workings of their organization, the challenges they face, and the tools they have put in place to facilitate their management.

According to our study, the most time-consuming tasks for executive assistants revolve mainly around administrative functions. These activities, while necessary, tend to monopolize a significant proportion of their working time, preventing them from concentrating fully on more crucial aspects of their role, such as operational and strategic development.

Among the most time-consuming tasks in their job descriptions, the executive assistants surveyed identify the following:

**1. Meeting preparation:** preparing agendas and presentation documents, taking and sharing minutes, following up on decisions and tasks delegated at meetings,

**2. Diary management and meeting organization:** planning and coordination of appointments, team meetings, and conferences, taking care to avoid scheduling conflicts,
**3. Document preparation and management:** drafting, proofreading, and organizing important documents such as reports, presentations, correspondence and contracts,

**4. Project coordination:** managing and following up on specific projects, liaising between different departments, and meeting deadlines.

Internal and external communications, administrative support, and human resources management closely follow those.

## How to lighten the administrative load for an executive assistant?

When asked what tools were used to monitor collaboration before WEDO was integrated, the most common programs were Outlook, Word (for taking minutes), and Excel. However, these tools had significant limitations. Respondents reported difficulties related to the cross-functionality of information between different team members. For example, these tools were not conducive to **active, real-time collaboration when taking PVs**, making this task often cumbersome and time-consuming, and necessitating numerous round-trips. The systematic use of e-mail to distribute these documents wasted considerable time without guaranteeing effective communication.

Furthermore, the limited nature of these tools prevented efficient tracking of tasks and projects. Users faced significant challenges maintaining a clear, up-to-date overview of projects. In short, although these tools are widespread and familiar, their use in team collaboration and project management needs to be improved.

This situation underlines the importance of cross-functional tools and solutions to lighten the administrative workload. With the implementation of WEDO, the executive assistants surveyed were able to optimize their administrative processes.

### 1. Meeting preparation and management

![computerized agenda for real-time note-taking](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/reunion_ENEN_aad2ef7f0e.png)

One of the most time-consuming aspects of the job is the preparation of meetings. With WEDO, executive assistants benefit from automated management and considerable time savings in preparation and follow-up. The platform enables uniform management of minutes, clear distribution of post-meeting tasks, and automatic tracking of topics from one session to the next. Users report an average time saving of 55% for these tasks.

![save time spent on meetings](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/55_ENEN_83c8604c19.png)

WEDO's meeting module lets you integrate blocks of paragraphs, tasks, file attachments, personal notes, votes and signatures, among others.

![testimonial Regula Oberdorfer](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/Regula_Oberdorfer_ENEN_1a54d3c30f.png)

### 2. Project management and task tracking

![efficient task management](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/tasks_ENEN_be99588a59.png)

Project management and tracking represent another major challenge. WEDO simplifies this task by offering clear delegation possibilities, the creation of checklist templates to standardize processes, and real-time task tracking. This leads to better prioritization and more efficient day-to-day management.

![testimonials Aline Volery and Nicole Thalmann](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/testimonials_Aline_et_Nicole_ENEN_11a8dc6cff.png)

### Use case: facilitating HR processes and the transmission of specifications

When executive assistants are involved in HR processes, the integration of WEDO proves to be a major asset. The platform makes it possible to standardize on-boarding and off-boarding procedures by means of specific checklists. These checklists, drawn up for each stage of the process, automatically assign the relevant tasks to the team members concerned. This method ensures structured, efficient management of personnel transitions, eliminating the operational uncertainties often associated with the question "What steps should I take?".

By simplifying these processes, WEDO not only eases the workload for HR managers, but also contributes to a clear, documented handover of tasks and knowledge from one employee to the next.

![simplified hr processes](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/Modeles_checklists_ENEN_fdf58af70f.png)

One of the decisive advantages of WEDO, highlighted by our management assistants, is the ease with which recruitment interviews can be documented in real time. Each exchange can be recorded directly in a standardized (and customized if required) agenda, enabling these interactions to be saved methodically and instantaneously.

### 4. Transmission of information

WEDO lets you link documents to tasks or meetings, ensuring that all the necessary information is in the right place. Global search makes it easy to retrieve documents, and to find a specific file based on a keyword found in the PDF file.

In terms of communication, WEDO users particularly appreciate the immediate visibility of entries and the ability to restrict access to certain information.

![Alexandra Locher](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/Alexandra_locher_ENEN_e53527e95c.png)

**We asked our users to rate the platform on a scale of 1 to 10, to qualify the positive impact WEDO has on their daily tasks.**

![Best collaborative software for executive assistant productivity and organizations](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/preparation_reunion_note_ENEN_1_d92c7629a1.png)

![Alicia Aubert](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/Alicia_Aubert_ENEN_5d3644b8f7.png)

Executive assistants can greatly ease their workload by equipping themselves with a collaborative platform. Do you have any questions or doubts about WEDO's compatibility with your needs? We'll be happy to give you a short 30-minute demonstration.

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In the fast-paced world of administrative management, executive assistants play a crucial role. The Swiss army knives of any organization juggle many tasks and deadlines while supervising those of others

An executive assistant speaking on the phone with colleagues blurred in the background, overlaid with the text “How to make an executive assistant’s daily life easier” and “Use case”

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Making daily life easier for executive assistants

Held once a month, quarter, or half-year, as required, these privileged meetings provide a confidential and open communication space, encouraging in-depth discussion of individual and collective objectives. They create a valuable opportunity to discuss each employee's specific challenges and needs, fostering better mutual understanding. Moreover, these meetings provide a framework for recognizing individual achievements and contributions, reinforcing a sense of accomplishment and belonging to the team. Thanks to these personalized exchanges, bilateral meetings contribute to more effective personnel management, more focused professional growth, and solid, fulfilling working relationships.

## Key topics for a bilateral meeting

During a bilateral meeting between a team leader and an employee, several key topics must be addressed to ensure effective communication and optimal management. Here are some of these topics:

### 1. Ongoing assessment
Discuss objectives for the current period and assess progress and results achieved. Identify successes and areas requiring further attention.

### 2. Professional Development
Explore opportunities for employee development, training, and professional growth. Identify skills to be strengthened and possible progression paths.

### 3. Feedback
Exchange constructive feedback on work performed, highlighting strengths and addressing areas for improvement. Encourage open dialogue to stimulate continuous learning.

### 4. Needs and Challenges
Allow employees to express their needs regarding resources, assistance, or support to accomplish their tasks. Discuss possible obstacles and find solutions together.

### 5. Work-Life Balance
Address workload-related issues, stress levels, and work-life balance. Identify measures to support employee well-being.

### 6. Projects and Initiatives
Discuss future projects, new initiatives, and potential employee contributions. Encourage active participation and creativity.

### 7. Management feedback
Offer employees the opportunity to share their feelings about management, work methods, and team communication. Foster an environment of trust and continuous improvement.

### 8. Focus on Vision
Ensure that the employee understands and adheres to the team or company's overall vision, values, and goals.

### 9. Resources and Support
Identify the resources required for the associate's success and ensure that he/she has the proper support to carry out his/her tasks.

### 10. Long-Term Planning
Examine longer-term perspectives and discuss the employee's career aspirations and how these align with team or organizational goals.

_"Enabling discussions in bilateral meetings, in a more intimate way and with a long-term vision, brings a notable benefit to the employee's career in the company. It makes them feel valued, heard and recognized above all. Setting clear, long-term objectives is a real motivator for them."_

**Marie Rudaz-Jaeggi**, *[AmbitionSuccess.ch](http://ambitionsuccess.ch/)* - MORGES

Team leaders and employees can establish fruitful collaboration, foster professional development, and maintain a positive working climate by addressing these topics regularly and in-depth at bilateral meetings.

## Use WEDO to keep track of your bilateral meetings!

![1_1 ENFR.png](https://wedo-assets.sos-ch-gva-2.exo.io/1_1_ENFR_78b8a89537.png)

With WEDO, you can prepare your agenda jointly with your manager or colleague. In this way, each participant can prepare the questions or topics to be addressed.

Generally speaking, the agenda items for a bilateral meeting are recurrent. WEDO enables you to set the topics so that they recur from one time to the next to ensure that discussions are followed up and that objectives evolve.

Once completed, the minutes are locked and remain available to both participants for consultation.

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During a bilateral meeting between a team leader and an employee, several key topics must be addressed to ensure effective communication and optimal management.

A smiling person listening to their counterpart in a one-on-one meeting, overlaid with the text “Topics for a one-on-one meeting” and “Use case”

The WEDO Blog

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