Task tracking is a highly useful skill for game developers when they get organized. At first, you may look at systems like Trac or Github Issues and think it’s a tool for bad bosses who micromanage, but it has some secret powers for employees and solo developers. I describe the GitHub tools in depth in this video if you need an example of what I’m talking about.
Systematize the team
In a team setting, using software to stay organized can let you “pass” a task to a team member, but even if you’re using a pencil and paper, you need at least three pieces of information.
Description
Estimated Task Length
Actual Task Length
When estimating a task, “go with your gut.” I worked with a programmer who would consistently estimate his tasks incorrectly, but he was consistently wrong! When we looked back at his tasks from the last project, we learned that he spent about 50% more time than he estimated. For the next project, we asked him to continue trusting his gut instinct, and afterward, we multiplied the time it took by one and a half. After that, he rarely had to stay late because we overpromised on our features.
The reason it’s a good habit because it lets you refine your “gut instinct” and keep records of things that need to be done the NEXT time you implement something. So if you start working on something and discover three extra steps to the process, Add it to your planner and stay organized!
The Secret Power
If the boss comes to your desk and says, “make me a 3D crate asset”, you should always add a task to the list and ask your boss if this task should take priority over other tasks on your list. This stops the invisible tasks from making you look less productive to your team members. Especially if it’s a task outside your job description like planning a company New Year party. Tasks like party planning are often a lot of work and impact the quality of your work. This is especially harmful to women.
Since I manage multiple projects at a time and teaching at UConn gives everyone access to the Microsoft suite, I have been a huge fan of Microsoft Planner. It’s hooked into everyone’s email address, is simple to use, and can hook into other products like Microsoft Teams.
What tools do you use to keep organized?