## Many Thinking Hats Our lives have many facets, and roles each of which requires us to think and coordinate differently. A freelancer needs to balance current orders and actions to generate future business: - Execute orders for core services - Sell current services - Develops the services of the future - Manages time, resources and projects Our aim is to help people manage their workload and clarify their priorities. We support autonomous responsibilities, taking the time, and self-respect. You can’t focus all your time on your core skills. You must sell your services and expedite orders, but also develop business and and market services, do your accounts, tax returns, raise finance and more. You may have to learn techniques to stay on top of all these responsibilities. This site aims to discuss ways to analyse your decisions objectively, set goals and run projects to make it all happen. ![[summary-mjl-tek.png]] We look at how to manage your projects with the [[Getting Things Done (GTD) framework]] and applications of the [[Plan Do Check Assess cycle]] for continuous learning and improvement. We explain ways to distinguish which activities are urgent and important using the [[Eisenhower Decision Matrix]]. We discuss software such as [[Obsidian Features and Plugins for Action|Obsidian]] for note taking, [[Evaluation of Notion with Example Databases|notion databases]], project and task planning with [[Todoist is an effective task manager|todoist]] and examples of business [[The Principles of Systems Analysis and Design|systems analysis]]. ## Our experience We have [[Experience as Analyst Project Manager]] developing Microsoft Access databases in purchasing and project management. We ran a small business offering [[Digitization and Media Services]], slides, and negatives, glass plates, photos, and documents, DVD duplication, and video editing. As a freelancer, we provided technical and media translation, transcription, subtitling, [[Website Localization and Translation]]. We are now delighted to be in education, supporting learners with special needs such as learning difficulties, ADHD and various degrees of Autism. Get in touch using our [[Contact details]] by email, on Reddit, Facebook or Instagram. ![[tek-logo.jpg|200]] ## Start here (quick paths) - Get organized fast → [[Getting Things Done (GTD) framework]] - Build a simple issue/problem‑solving database → [[Issue Management and Problem Solving Database]] - Obsidian Features for Productivity → [[Obsidian Features and Plugins for Action]] ## Key Themes of mjl-tek Explore mjl‑tek’s key themes: GTD and PDCA, How to use Obsidian and Notion for productivity, systems analysis, project planning, and databases – with practical guides, tools, and case studies. Mjl‑tek offers practical advice to turn ideas into action and helps independent professionals and teams get organized, build databases, and improve processes using [GTD](https://gettingthingsdone.com/), [Obsidian](https://obsidian.md/), [Notion](https://www.notion.so/), and systems thinking. Start with a theme below or jump to our recommended first reads. **[[#Management methods]]:** Pragmatic tools to prioritize, plan, and iterate with calm focus. Start with: [[Getting Things Done (GTD) framework]], [[Plan Do Check Assess cycle]], [[Eisenhower Decision Matrix]] **[[#Software to Capture Experience]]:** Turn ideas into actionable systems with Obsidian, Notion, Trello, and more. Start with: [[Software to use in Getting Things Done]], [[Obsidian Features and Plugins for Action]], [[Mind Mapping Software Recommendations]] **[[#Management databases]]:** Lightweight data models that support issue tracking, translation, and purchasing decisions. Start with: [[Issue Management and Problem Solving Database]], [[Translation Project database in Access]], [[Evaluation of Notion with Example Databases]] **[[#Systems analysis and design]]:** Think in flows and boundaries to document, improve, and scale processes. Start with: [[The Principles of Systems Analysis and Design]], [[Project Definition and Protecting the Plan]] **[[#Digitization and Media Services]]:** From transfer to editing and subtitles – practical workflows for real projects. Start with: [[Digitization and Media Services]], [[Different Types of Video Editing Project]], [[Video Transcription and Subtitling]] **[[#Experience and past projects]]:** Selected projects and methods used in the field. Start with: [[Experience as Analyst Project Manager]], [[The Document Translation Process]]  ## Management Methods The real world requires [[Management Methods - Eisenhower, PDCA|business management methods]] nimble enough to react to the changing environment. First, ask yourself what you’re trying to achieve. - What is your endgame? - What is your motivation, - Are you committed to reaching your goal? - Are you responding to an internal desire or adapting to circumstances? We examine techniques to enhance productivity and decision-making such as SWOT analysis and the Pomodoro method. How to [[Define and Set Smart Objectives]] that are clear, realistic, and time-bound to reduce stress and improve focus. Read about how to [[Project Definition and Protecting the Plan]], initiating, planning, executing, and coordinating a project within budget, duration, and risk boundaries. The [[Getting Things Done (GTD) framework]] offers principles for organizing tasks, providing a comprehensive toolkit for both personal and professional contexts, including [[Getting Things Done (GTD) framework#Next Action|Next Action]], [[Getting Things Done (GTD) framework#The Inbox|The Inbox]], [[Getting Things Done (GTD) framework#The Trusted System|The Trusted System]] and [[Getting Things Done (GTD) framework#Mind Like Water|Mind Like Water]]. ![[getting-things-done-summary.png|Diagram summarizing the Getting Things Done (GTD) productivity framework, showing steps like capture, clarify, organize, reflect, and engage for effective task management.]] The [[Plan Do Check Assess cycle]] is a method for continuous improvement and task management rather than fault and blame. ![[PDCA.png|Visual representation of the Plan-Do-Check-Assess (PDCA) cycle for continuous improvement and iterative task management.]] In [[Different Types of Decision Making]] we discuss an inventory of techniques to organize your actions effectively. The [[Eisenhower Decision Matrix]] can be very useful to determine priorities, and asks which tasks and projects are urgent and important. ![[eisenhower matrix grid.png|Eisenhower Decision Matrix grid illustrating how to prioritize tasks by urgency and importance.]] We emphasize the importance of maintaining direction in life. Together, these techniques empower individuals to visualize objectives to create a vivid mental image of your aspirations, fostering motivation and focus. The [[Plan Do Check Assess cycle]] cycle is a method for task management, replacing the notion of fault with learning and continuous improvement. ![[PDCA.png]] [[Finding your Purpose and Direction]] examines how to set and evaluate your progress towards meaningful goals. ![[measuring-your-trajectory.png|Diagram showing how to measure progress and trajectory towards goals for personal and professional development.]] Every day actions feed a continuous learning cycle to [[Turn Ideas into Actions and Projects]] either by breaking down objectives or grouping issues and priorities into coherent projects. ![[Order and project cycle.png|Flowchart depicting the cycle of turning ideas into actions and projects through continuous learning and iteration.]] We describe the uses of [[Uses of Mind Mapping - Notes, Brainstorming|mind-mapping]], for brainstorming, writing a plan, and clarifying complex subjects and situations in the context of [[Issue Management and Problem Solving Database|problem-solving]]. ![[uses-of-mindmapping.png|Examples of mind mapping uses, such as brainstorming, planning, and clarifying complex subjects and situations.]] We evaluate [[Mind Mapping Software Recommendations|mind-mapping software]] for ease of use, customization, lay out options such as in our [[Introduction to Ayoa mind mapping platform]]. We examine the value of note-taking systems such as [[Obsidian Features and Plugins for Action|Obsidian]] to collect data and why [[Issue Management and Problem Solving Database#Problem Solving|problem-solving]] is important in business and technical environments. ![[problem-solving-capture-process.png|Diagram of the problem-solving capture process, showing steps for identifying and resolving issues in business and technical environments.]] Continuous improvement is the ongoing effort to enhance processes, products, or services over time. Rooted in principles like adaptability and learning, it fosters a culture where individuals and organizations constantly evaluate performance and implement incremental changes to achieve greater efficiency and quality through innovation. ## Management Databases Structured data systems form the backbone of modern digital infrastructure, enabling organizations to reference vast amounts of information securely, supporting critical applications such as customer relationship management, inventory tracking, and finance. We present our [[Issue Management and Problem Solving Database]] which structures data around observation, probable, or possible cause, cost, and post-project feedback to determine if implementation was effective. Issue management form: ![[essential-issue-fields.png|Screenshot or diagram of essential fields in an issue management form, such as observation, cause, cost, and feedback.|350]] Our [[Translation Project database in Access]] stores translation terms and measures production performance. ![[translation-database-ERD.png|Entity-Relationship Diagram (ERD) of a translation project database, showing tables and relationships for managing translation terms and performance.]] We developed a [[Purchasing Price and Forecast Database]] to centralize purchase prices, consolidate forecasts and consumption, produce key performance indicators. ![[scope-purchasing-post.png|Mind map of the themes we discuss regarding a purchasing price and forecast database, illustrating centralized purchase price and forecast management.]] But in recent years the market has introduced very flexible, online-offline synchronized tools such as Notion. See some example [[Evaluation of Notion with Example Databases|notion databases]]. ![[notion-for-databases.png|Example of using Notion for databases, highlighting flexible field management and table relations.]] ## Software to Capture Experience We present [[Software to use in Getting Things Done]] including Trello, Todoist, Google Calendar and [[Software to use in Getting Things Done#Odoo ERP for all formal processes|Odoo ERP for all formal processes]] ![[software-for-GTD.png|Overview of software tools used for implementing the Getting Things Done (GTD) methodology, including Trello, Todoist, and Google Calendar.]] We discuss the [[The Features of Trello - Kanban, Plugins|features of trello]] which offer an opportunity to implement GTD lists and a wide range of plugins, such as Gantt and calendar synchronization. We examine [[Evernote to capture ideas and issues]], use as a library, a record of activity, thoughts, reflections, and doodles. ## Systems Analysis and Design The black box approach to [[The Principles of Systems Analysis and Design|systems analysis]] allow us to analyse data flows and processes without necessarily needing to know the inner workings of the system. Documenting operations aids training, change management, and defining clear processes. It supports efficiency and enhances strategic planning. ![[the-world-system.png|Diagram illustrating the black box approach in systems analysis, showing data flows and process boundaries.]] ## Experience and past projects We describe our [[Experience as Analyst Project Manager]] spanning procurement, SEO, translation, database management, business analysis, and video production. ![[technical-experience.png|Infographic or summary of technical experience as an analyst and project manager, covering procurement, SEO, translation, and more.]] From our experience in [[The Technical Translation Process|technical translation]] we describe [[The Technical Translation Process]] from order confirmation, project set up, and proofing to generating the target documents. ![[translation-process-end-to-end.png|Diagram showing the document translation process from order confirmation to final delivery.]] We discuss [[French to English Translation Services#Different types of translation|different types of translation]] from Technical to Literary including business legal, post-editing, and media services, literary works and patents. ![[translation-projects-header.png|Header images illustrating different types of translation projects, from technical to literary and media services.]] We look at [[Website Localization and Translation]] including keyword research for local audiences and preferences. ![[website-seo-tools-summary.png|Summary diagram of website localization, translation, and SEO tools for optimizing content for regional audiences.]] We are now involved in supporting learners with special educational needs: autism, ADHD, dyslexia or dyscalculia where we employ [[Uses of Mind Mapping - Notes, Brainstorming|mind mapping]] to break down work. ## Video Digitization Services We spent many years providing [[Digitization and Media Services]] and audio tapes, slides, and negatives, glass plates, photos, and documents, and DVD duplication. ![[mjl video logo.jpg|Logo representing mjl-tek’s video and media digitization services.]] We describe [[Different Types of Video Editing Project]] based on the source format and different target audiences. Examples are short compilations, live events, or longer documentary editing transform raw footage into compelling visual narratives by employing techniques like montages and transitions to create polished content for diverse platforms. ![[linear-video-editing.png|Diagram or screenshot illustrating the process of linear video editing for various project types.]] [[Video Transcription and Subtitling]] adapt content for diverse audiences while preserving its intent and emotional resonance. This process requires balancing linguistic accuracy with cultural sensitivity to ensure global accessibility and engagement. For us it is English and French audio transcription and subtitling for business presentations and entertainment videos. ![[video-subtitling-subtitle-edit.webp|Video timeline screenshot from subtitle editing software, showing the process of video transcription and subtitling.]] ## Contact Details for mjl-tek Have a question or a project in mind? Get in touch using our [[Contact details]] on Reddit, Facebook, Instagram or by email.