## Introduction [Trello](https://www.trello.com) is a visual project management and collaboration tool that enables individuals and teams to organize tasks and workflows using a flexible, card-based system. Developed by Fog Creek Software in 2011 and later acquired by Atlassian in 2017, it has become one of the most widely used task management tools due to its simplicity, versatility, and user-friendly interface. <br> ![[Trello Workboard R&D.png]] *Trello workboard standard structure for the MAXQ R&D workload* ## Features Trello is built around three key elements: **Boards, Lists, and Cards**. - **Boards:** Represent a project or workflow, providing a high-level view of tasks. - **Lists:** Organize tasks within a board, often used to represent different stages (e.g., To-Do, In Progress, Done). - **Cards:** Individual tasks or action items that contain details, attachments, comments, checklists, and due dates. - **Labels:** Customizable tags to categorize tasks. - **Checklists:** Subtasks within a card to break down complex tasks. - **Power-Ups:** Integrations with third-party tools like Slack, Google Drive, Jira, and automation tools. - **Automation (Butler):** Enables workflow automation, such as moving cards based on conditions. ## Applications Trello is used across industries and teams for different purposes, including: - **Project Management:** Organizing sprints, tracking deadlines, and managing product development. - **Task Management:** Prioritizing daily or weekly tasks efficiently. - **Agile & Scrum Workflows:** Managing backlogs, sprint planning, and task progress. - **Content Planning:** Editorial calendars, social media scheduling, and marketing campaign management. - **Remote Team Collaboration:** Keeping teams aligned on tasks, updates, and priorities. - **Personal Productivity:** Managing goals, travel plans, home improvement projects, or learning schedules. ## Best Practices To maximize effectiveness, consider these best practices: - **Keep Boards Organized:** - Use a clear and concise board structure. - Keep list names relevant to the workflow. - **Use Labels & Tags:** - Categorize tasks for easy filtering. - Use colors to indicate priority, task type, or status. - **Leverage Checklists & Due Dates:** - Break down complex tasks into smaller steps. - Set due dates to keep projects on schedule. - **Automate Workflows with Butler:** - Automate recurring tasks. - Set up rules to move cards based on progress. - **Collaborate Effectively:** - Use comments and mentions to keep teams updated. - Attach files and links for easy access to resources. - **Monitor Progress with Power-Ups:** - Use calendar views for timeline planning. - Integrate reporting tools to track productivity. ## Usage At MAXQ Analytics we prefer to track all our workboard backlog in Trello, except when a client prefers another tool. We have a standardised set of columns that makes sure we are building the right thing for the right development costs. The most critical parts are the two discussion columns, where the client green-lights development tasks. In general we split small tasks, less than 4 hours and larger tasks > 4 hours. Once the green light has been given during a slack conversation, phone call or check-in, the cards are moved to the right and development can begin. %% Owner: Philip Boontje %%