Yo! I was prepared so badly for the launch, kind of ironic when you're developing a productivity tool. Anyway.
I want to highlight some features of Redline, that make sense for me.
1. The obvious one, I was exhausted from managing complex to-do lists and wanted something simpler.
2. I wanted something visible all the time—focus was a priority. Focus without distractions like reminders or timers.
3. Even the input is handled right in the place where the task is visible. Often similar apps create a separate window for this, it's too much for me and I want to create cool UX for the app.
4. The shortcuts must be cool too: so I added support for "double tap" shortcuts. You don't need to type some complex keys or find an unused combination.
You can read more about philosophy and premises behind the app in Redline's Manifesto (https://vanka.me/redline-manifesto)
Also shout-outs to @chrismessina for hunting the app, thank you!
So I get the idea of making things simple but I'm kinda wondering if people really need another to-do list app, especially one without any real features? I mean we already have so many tools that do more than just sit there on the menu bar, at this point isn't it more about having functionality than just having fewer options? Maybe you could think about adding at least one or two features that make it stand out
@cyberrobin Hey, thanks for the feedback. I'll have some features added soon, but for now I'm completely content with my feature set.
"Simplicity and speed are the actual features."
About what will come next: I'm thinking about stack-based to-do list, for example I'm working on a task, and suddenly I decided that I need to switch to something related (i.e a subtask), I'll do this one, and after I finish it, I will pop back to the parent task, making it work like a stack. I hope it makes some sense!
It might help ADHD folks and make switching between tasks less cumbersome—you will always know where you stopped.
Super sleek and effective design, @vanka! The focus on doing rather than planning is refreshing and much needed. I'm particularly intrigued by the "double tap" shortcuts. Any plans to integrate with other productivity tools or calendar apps for a more seamless experience?
@renchu_song Hi! Do you have some concrete ideas?
Redline has some automation https://vanka.me/redline/faq#aut... which can be included in calendar events I guess.
You can launch this automation from scripts, simply firing a link. Also there's a neat trick to open a link from a .url file. Create a file with the .url extension, say Hey.url, and put this in the contents:
[InternetShortcut]
URL=redline://v1/do?value=Hey
A to-do list that respects your attention is just what we need in a world full of distractions! How does Redline complement other productivity tools you use? Any tips for maximizing its potential?
@marian_vovk Hi! I'm not super strict about when and how I use Redline. Mostly I use it when I need to be super focused on some big task. So my advice is, don't make it your goal to use Redline every time, or any productivity tool. It will be most useful when you "get" when to use it.
I don't use other tools to complement Redline, but one can find useful automation it provides. Automation is done via simple links, so you can insert them into calendar events or scripts.
@vanka Thanks for sharing your approach! It makes sense to use Redline when you really need that extra focus. I agree that understanding when a tool is most beneficial is key to maximizing its effectiveness. The automation feature sounds intriguing—I'll definitely explore how it can be integrated into my workflow. Appreciate the insights!
Astounded! This tool is user-friendly and features a straightforward interface. I appreciate the ability to quickly modify my tasks via shortcuts; it brings me joy.
@nancy_zhou_klee Haha! Everyone else is to-do list while Redline it DO list.
The app's feature set is pretty small compared to other tools, but I don't want to focus on features. I was set to change the mode you're working in.
Rather than planning and managing the future, Redline can help one to focus on what is really needed right now. It's a complete anti to-do list, since you can't plan with it. Focusing more on work habits and guiding yourself, finding a rhythm and flow.
I guess it's the main difference.
But some features are still specific, and I don't know other apps that do them:
1. Proper UX. The input is immediate, you type where you see the task. Without any additional input windows to lose focus.
2. The double shortcut. You have to try it to understand its convenience. It makes the process smooth, helps with focus too.
I want to play with some modes in the future, one idea is to add stack-based mode:
"
…for example I'm working on a task, and suddenly I decided that I need to switch to something related (i.e a subtask), I'll do this one, and after I finish it, I will pop back to the parent task, making it work like a stack…
"
Just discovered Redline, and it looks awesome! 🙌 I love the idea of a minimal to-do list right in the menu bar—super convenient for keeping track of tasks without the clutter.Quick question: Can you customize the look of the list, or is it pretty much set as is? Excited to give it a try! 📝💻
@new_user__330202361305144c07d45c0 Hey, thanks for the feedback, I'm glad you liked you liked it.
Do you have something specific in your mind, maybe examples?
The idea is/was that you don't often look at this list and dwell on it, just review the items you've done in a session and move on.
Congrats on launching such a unique Mac application! I love the idea of making the to-do list always visible, it’s definitely a game changer for productivity. The focus on doing rather than just planning is so key to getting stuff done. Having that constant reminder in the menu bar sounds like a perfect balance between functionality and UX. Can't wait to see how it performs in the wild. Great job! Keep it up!
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