10 useful productivity apps for CEOs to maximise efficiency and avoid distractions

In a fast-paced business climate, executives must navigate a myriad of tasks while maintaining a clear focus on their strategic goals, to drive their business forward.

Distractions, combined with lack of organisation and a heavy workload, can lead to decreased productivity and, ultimately, inefficiency.

Fortunately, with technology becoming an indispensable resource, numerous productivity apps are available that can help streamline operations, reduce distractions, and enhance organisation.

While timesaving can vary from one app user to another, a report by McKinsey & Company had found that productivity tools could improve productivity by up to 25 per cent in some sectors by streamlining administrative tasks, automatic processes, and facilitating better communication.

Here are 10 essential apps that executives, and anyone with a busy schedule, should consider incorporating into their daily routine.

1) Trello

Trello is a visual project management tool that allows users to create boards, lists, and cards to organise tasks. This flexibility makes it ideal for managing team projects, tracking progress, and collaborating with colleagues. Its user-friendly interface helps reduce the time spent on task management, allowing executives to focus on higher-level strategy.

Pricing: Free for basic features; Business Class at €10 per month per user (billed annually).

2) Slack

Slack is a messaging platform designed for team collaboration. It allows users to create channels for specific projects or topics, reducing the clutter of traditional email communication. With features like file sharing, integrations with other apps, and the ability to communicate in real-time, Slack keeps teams connected and informed without unnecessary distractions.

Pricing: Free for basic use; Standard plan at €6.25/month per user (billed annually).

3) Clean email

Clean Email is an email management tool designed to help users efficiently organise and declutter their inboxes. For C-suite executives, maintaining a tidy inbox is crucial for productivity and focus. Clean Email allows users to easily unsubscribe from unwanted emails, archive, delete, or move multiple emails at once, thereby streamlining communication and reducing distractions.

Pricing: Free for basic features; Premium plan at €4.99 per month when billed annually.

4) Focus@Will

For those struggling with concentration, Focus@Will provides curated music tracks designed to enhance focus and productivity. The app offers a range of playlists tailored to different work styles and tasks, helping users minimise distractions and create an ideal working environment.

Pricing: Free trial available; Subscription at €8 per month.

5) RescueTime

RescueTime is a time management tool that tracks how users spend their time on various applications and websites. By providing insights into daily habits, it helps executives identify time-wasting activities and adjust their work patterns accordingly. This awareness is key to improving overall productivity.

Pricing: Free for basic features; Premium at €9 per month.

6) Todoist

Todoist is a task management app that allows users to create to-do lists, set priorities, and schedule tasks. Its clean interface and powerful features enable executives to stay organised and ensure that important tasks are completed on time. With cross-platform syncing, users can access their lists from any device, further enhancing productivity.

Pricing: Free for basic features; Premium at €3 per month when billed annually.

7) Evernote

Evernote is a versatile note-taking app that allows users to capture ideas, create to-do lists, and store important documents. Its ability to sync across devices ensures that information is always accessible, making it easier for executives to stay organised and remember key tasks or insights.

Pricing: Free for basic features; Premium at €6.99 per month when billed annually.

8) Calendly

Calendly simplifies scheduling by allowing users to set their availability and letting others book meetings without the back-and-forth of emails. This tool saves valuable time, enabling executives to focus on strategic initiatives rather than logistical details.

Pricing: Free for basic use; Premium at €8 per month when billed annually.

9) Forest

Forest is a productivity app designed to help users stay focused by gamifying the process of avoiding distractions. By planting a virtual tree that grows as you concentrate on your tasks, it encourages users to maintain focus while discouraging the use of their phones. For CEOs, Forest serves as an effective tool to enhance concentration during busy workdays, fostering a more productive environment.

Pricing: Free for basic features; Pro version at €1.99 for iOS and €3.49 for Android.

10) MindMeister

MindMeister is a mind mapping tool that helps users brainstorm and organise their thoughts visually. For CEOs, this can be particularly useful for strategic planning and problem-solving, allowing for a clear representation of ideas and facilitating better decision-making.

Pricing: Free for basic features; Premium at €4.99 per month when billed annually.