Task

What are tasks in Connections?
 

Tasks in Connections Online are structured action items that help individuals and teams stay organized and accountable. Tasks are available for projects, dialogs, individuals and their basic role.

Parts of a Task

• Rank: Determines the order in which tasks appear within their respective project or module as the default ordering for tasks is by ascending rank. The task rank can also be used to indicate a parent-child relationship between tasks, meaning subtasks are grouped under larger tasks for better organization. A new task of rank 1.1 will mean it is the first child/subtask listed under whichever task is currently rank 1.
• Description: A free form area to provide additional information about a task, ensuring clarity and alignment with project goals. Here’s how it can be effectively used:
  • Define the Task Scope: Clearly outline what the task involves, including objectives and expected outcomes.
  • Provide Context: Add relevant details such as background information, dependencies, or instructions for completion.
  • Clarify Expectations: Specify deliverables, deadlines, and any criteria for success.
  • Facilitate Collaboration: Use the description to communicate important notes to team members, ensuring everyone is aligned.
  • Track Progress: Update the description with key milestones, status changes, or additional insights as the task evolves.
• People Responsible: This is the person or people responsible for completion of the task. When a person is added to this on a task it will show up on their individual tasks list and be reflected on any relevant PM dashboards for the
• Project Milestone: represents a significant checkpoint within a project or workflow. Milestones help track progress by marking key achievements or deadlines that indicate movement toward the overall goal.
• Projected Start and End Date: These are used during the planning stages to forecast how long you think each task should take, to set up a timeline where each task is completed and the milestones span the start of the first task and end of the last subtask.
• Actual Start and End Date: The start date actual marks when the person responsible has actually begun work on the task. The actual end date marks when the task has been completed.
• Projected Hours: This represents the estimated amount of time a task is expected to take. It helps team members plan their workload and allocate resources effectively.
• Actual Hours: This tracks the real time spent completing the task. Comparing actual hours to projected hours provides insights into efficiency, potential bottlenecks, and adjustments needed for future planning.
• Percent Complete: Helps track or estimate the progress on tasks by indicating how much of the work has been completed.

How to Create / Edit / Delete a Task

• Use the button in the page title for the tasks list page to create a new task for the current page. Fill out the fields in the form and use the Save button in the top right to save.
• Right click the task in the list to edit or delete a task.

Project Tasks

Project tasks are tied to specific projects and help track progress toward deliverables.
 

• Define Key Outcomes: Identify the major deliverables and objectives of the project.
• Break Down Milestones: Establish significant checkpoints that mark progress toward completion.
• Create Subtasks: List actionable steps needed to achieve each milestone.
• Assign Responsibilities: Ensure each team member is accountable for specific tasks.
• Set Deadlines: Forecast realistic timelines for each milestone and subtask.
• Track Progress & Adjust: Regularly review task updates, resolve challenges, and refine strategies as needed.

Project members can add tasks, set them as milestones, and color code the health of the task.  The tasks will be tangible results, stated in past tense.  For example, if getting 10 people to participate in a focus group was a step in achieving the goal of the project, calling 10 people is an activity, 10 people participated in the Chicago focus group is a Task.  When viewing the task, members can change its priority (e.g., low, normal, high), add people responsible (which will automatically link and show up on their respective individual connection) and write comments about this task.

Dialog Follow-up Tasks

A follow-up task is typically created during or at the conclusion of a dialog to capture an action item connected to the discussion or something that needs to be addressed by the individual or initiative at a future date. These tasks can vary in scope but generally fall into three categories:

• Individual development actions: Follow-up tasks in individual dialogs serve as actionable steps that help individuals apply insights gained during their discussions. These are specific tasks aimed at improving personal effectiveness and skills before the next meeting. Examples include practicing a new technique, implementing feedback, or completing a training module.
• Project-related follow-ups: If the discussion involves a project, tasks might include refining an approach, conducting research, or addressing key challenges. These ensure that progress is made and momentum is maintained.
• Long-term strategic goals: For department or organization-wide development, follow-ups might involve setting broader objectives, defining processes, or working on initiatives that contribute to professional growth over time.

Basic Role Tasks

Basic role tasks refer to the daily responsibilities and activities that define a person's effectiveness in their position. These tasks help ensure consistency, productivity, and alignment with organizational goals. Here are some common categories of basic role tasks:

• Operational responsibilities: Completing routine tasks such as responding to emails, updating reports, or maintaining records that contribute to workflow efficiency.
• Communication & collaboration: Engaging with colleagues, attending meetings, and sharing information to support teamwork and alignment on projects.
• Task management & organization: Prioritizing responsibilities, setting deadlines, and tracking progress on assignments to maintain productivity.
• Problem-solving & decision-making: Addressing challenges, making informed choices, and adapting to unexpected situations in the workplace.
• Professional development integration: Applying learned skills, seeking feedback, and making improvements to increase effectiveness over time.

By focusing on these core activities, individuals can enhance their performance and maintain steady growth in their roles.

Individual/Personal Tasks

Individual or personal tasks within this system serve as structured steps toward personal development, growth, and goal-setting. These tasks can be independent of work responsibilities or complement professional development while focusing on broader life goals. Here are some common types:

• Personal development goals: Activities related to self-improvement, such as learning a new skill, reading self-growth books, practicing mindfulness, or developing leadership abilities.
• Health & well-being: Exercise routines, meal planning, sleep tracking, or mental wellness habits that support a healthier lifestyle.
• Financial management: Budgeting, saving for specific goals, or tracking personal investments and financial planning.
• Creative & passion projects: Writing, painting, music practice, photography, or any personal interests that bring joy and fulfillment.
• Community & relationships: Networking, volunteering, attending social events, or staying connected with family and friends.
• Routine & organization: Tracking daily habits, planning personal schedules, or setting reminders for tasks like grocery shopping or home maintenance.

These tasks, though outside of basic work responsibilities, help individuals stay focused, accountable, and continually progressing toward their aspirations.