Keep a dedicated space for shortcuts with a launch dock
Grab a launch dock and cut down on the time you spend searching for frequently used programs and files.
One of the most important steps to increasing productivity is finding ways to shorten the amount of time it takes to perform common tasks. Here’s one way to speed up the process: use a launch dock.
Mac OS users are already familiar with the convenient menu bar that allows them to quickly launch programs and files, but PC users need to take advantage of similar Windows programs. I just visited a printing shop that I often work with and was frustrated searching through a maze of desktop icons and Start Menu folders that covered the entire screen. The computers had dozens of programs and hundreds of files, but not an easy way to access the most commonly used.
That’s where a program like RocketDock or ObjectDock comes in handy. These app docks provide easy access to commonly used programs, websites, and files. They can be set to always remain visible for instant access or hovering and only visible when a mouse passes over a specific area of the screen. This creates a shortcut to popular programs and templates commonly used in the work day. For the printing shop, I created a RocketDock that included common tools of the trade, like Adobe’s Creative Suite, and links to their recent work. That way, we can limit the amount of time wasted searching for such items.
RocketDock is available for free to Windows. Through the use of add-ons, it can replicate the Stacks feature found on Mac OS, toggle Hidden Folders on/off, include computer usage statistics, and much more. ObjectDock is also available for free, but a paid version of the program that costs $19.95 can provide additional features. Multiple docks, tabbed docks, task grouping, and other functions are added in the paid version.
Regardless of which method people prefer, all computer users should move faster and more efficiently with a launch dock.
Filed Under: Software
Tags: lifehacks, shortcuts
I’m so often surprised that people don’t take advantage of the QuickLaunch area of the Windows Start bar. This has been a feature ever since Windows 98 I think, and the only thing it doesn’t do is show which apps are currently open. Just wondering if installing yet another app is really needed when the OS already has this functionality?
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It’s not really necessary, especially if you’re only using a few programs. This is geared more towards people who have many applications/folders/shortcuts they want to keep together. Quick Launch is a great feature but having multiple docks works better for me sorting through dozens of programs and go-to folders.
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A quick and dirty method is to create a folder, insert the desktop icons, keeping the folder on the desktop then clicking on the needed folder(s)/icon. For office work I auto start and minimize the programs I know will be needed at some point in the day. Admittedly, it’s not as pretty as the commercial versions for sure but it works.
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