The last paper list

I get a lot of questions about my productivity system. People always want to know what software I use for this or that. My system has changed a lot over the years and continues to evolve, becoming more mobile as I’ve gone entirely electronic. There was one hold-out on paper, though: my shopping list. For as far back as I care to remember, my grocery lists resided on pad, hand written, held by a magnet, attached to the refrigerator. Grocery shopping required a conscious decision to go get the list before leaving the house…or cogitating mightily when an impromptu errand took me to the store unexpectedly.

A few weeks ago, as I was standing in my local grocery store, feeling frustrated because I knew there were things on the list that weren’t in my head, I decided there had to be a great iPhone app for grocery lists. Well, I was right! It’s called Shopper.

When I searched for apps, there were many to choose from. I picked Shopper based on several key characteristics:

• I wanted different lists for different stores
• Price comparisons: I love my local Co-op but there are times when I think I can get something cheaper somewhere else.
• Customizations, like adding special items, was a must

Shopper gave me all this and more–it allows me to organize items so my list conforms to the layout of the store. I can create lists based on recipes so with a touch of a key, all the needed items are added to the appropriate grocery list. I can even email lists to my dearly beloved so he can pick up things for us on the way home.

I never go anywhere without my system–my calendar, task list, contacts–these travel on my iPod Touch. Now, my grocery lists are simply another part of the trusted system, always ready for action when the appropriate context arises. Now, I’m looking for an app that keeps my puppy occupied while I write!