The Tiger Avon: Why This Car Still Matters to Me

In the realm of open-top driving, few vehicles capture the spirit of motoring purity quite like the Tiger Avon. Paying homage to the iconic Lotus Seven roadster, this well-built and carefully designed car carries on the legacy of the legendary Colin Chapman. 

For me, this isn’t just about performance or specifications. It’s about the experience of driving something simple, mechanical, and completely connected to the road.

The Tiger Avon and the Lotus Seven Legacy

From its exhilarating performance to its agile handling, the Tiger Avon encapsulates the essence of the classic roadster while infusing it with modern engineering. Join us as we delve into the heart of this remarkable machine, exploring its power, design, and the unforgettable experiences it delivers.

What It’s Like to Drive

At the core of the Tiger Avon lies a spirited powerplant, paying homage to Chapman's engineering brilliance: a Toyota-sourced 1.6-liter 4-AGE engine with 16 valves. Complete with Jenvey throttle bodies and Omex engine management, this mighty motor generates an impressive 122 horsepower. With a power-to-weight ratio that leaves many sports cars in its wake, the Avon propels itself from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 7 seconds. Its featherlight construction, weighing approximately 750 kilograms, ensures an agile and responsive ride. The Avon's go-kart-like handling imparts a sense of control that embodies Chapman's design philosophy, making every drive an immersive and thrilling experience.

Simplicity and Design

The Tiger Avon's design pays homage to the timeless Lotus Seven, capturing the classic charm while incorporating contemporary aesthetics. Its sleek silhouette, defined by clean lines and an open cockpit, remains true to the spirit of its predecessor. The Avon's compact dimensions allow it to navigate city streets with ease, while its 15-inch alloy wheels add a touch of elegance and poise.

Stepping into the Avon, you'll find a driver-centric cabin designed to enhance the driving experience. Immerse yourself in a lightweight cockpit that places you squarely in command. The convertible roof, although challenging to access when raised, offers the versatility to embrace the open air or seek refuge as required. It is the perfect companion for sun-drenched summer days or embarking on memorable road trips.

The Tiger Avon's true prowess reveals itself on winding roads. Its rear-wheel-drive configuration, complemented by independent double wishbone suspension and Gaz coil-over shock absorbers, delivers exceptional road-holding capabilities. This meticulously tuned suspension system provides precise handling, allowing the Avon to carve through corners with confidence. The responsive steering further amplifies the connection between driver and machine, creating an immersive and intuitive driving experience that echoes the thrill of piloting a go-kart.

A Trip to Applecross

The Tiger Avon is not just a car meant to be admired from afar; it is a machine that yearns to be driven. One remarkable adventure took me to the awe-inspiring landscapes of Applecross in the west of Scotland. Equipped with camping gear and a sense of wanderlust, the Avon showcased its mettle on the open road. Its impressive power-to-weight ratio, combined with its nimble nature, allowed me to conquer twists and turns effortlessly. This journey united driver and machine, forging indelible memories along the way.

It’s in moments like this that the car makes sense. Not in specifications or numbers, but in how it feels on the road.

Why This Car Matters

The Tiger Avon faithfully carries on Colin Chapman's legacy by harmonizing classic design cues with modern performance. It presents an invigorating driving experience that stimulates the senses. It's agile handling, thrilling acceleration, and open-top freedom combine to create a masterpiece of motoring. Whether you seek an adrenaline-fueled weekend drive or embark on an epic road trip, the Avon's allure is irresistible. With each twist of the throttle and every bend in the road, the Tiger Avon pays homage to Colin Chapman's visionary spirit, reminding us of the pure joy and liberating freedom that driving enthusiasts yearn for.

From an engineering perspective, cars like this are a reminder that simplicity often leads to better outcomes. There’s very little between the driver and the road, and that clarity creates a more direct and reliable experience.

It’s a principle that applies just as much to software and systems as it does to cars.

Simple, well-designed systems—whether in cars or software—tend to work better and last longer.

I spend a lot of time helping simplify systems and make them behave in a more predictable way.

You can take a look at my TechFix service if that resonates.

Arched Pedant: The Superhero Who Overcomplicates Everything (and Why It Matters)

In a world where superheroes possess extraordinary abilities and fight for justice, the origin story of Arched Pedant unfolds, shedding light on the birth of a superhero like no other.

If you’ve ever worked on a project where something simple became unnecessarily complicated, you’ve probably met a version of the Arched Pedant.

Arched Pedant was not gifted with superhuman strength or the power of flight but instead was born from a desire for intellectual superiority and an insatiable thirst for complexity.

Let us embark on a journey to explore the circumstances that led to his unconventional powers and the unique challenges he faces in a world of straightforward heroes.

The Arched Pedant

In the early years of The Arched Pedant's life, his extraordinary intellect and a tendency to make things more complicated than they need to be set him apart from his peers. Even as a young prodigy, he found himself drawn to complexity, constantly seeking to unravel the intricate workings of the world around him. From mathematics to philosophy, The Arched Pedant delved into various disciplines, driven by an insatiable curiosity that would shape his future.

One fateful day, The Arched Pedant encountered a mind-bending puzzle that would change his life forever. It was a moment of revelation, as the enigmatic nature of complexity captivated his imagination. He became consumed by the desire to understand and master intricate systems, driven by the belief that true wisdom lay in embracing the complexity that eluded others.

The Problem with Overcomplication

Armed with an unyielding determination, The Arched Pedant embarked on a journey of intellectual superiority. Countless hours were dedicated to research, analysis, and study. He voraciously devoured knowledge across a vast array of subjects, honing his mind to become a formidable force in the realm of complexity. With each new challenge, his understanding deepened, and his ability to navigate the depths of intricate systems grew stronger.

The Arched Pedant's journey was not without its challenges. In a world dominated by straightforward heroes who relied on physical strength or conventional superpowers, he often found himself at odds with established norms. His penchant for overthinking and overcomplicating sometimes hindered his ability to act swiftly or make decisions effectively. This clash of methodologies created a tension that made him an outsider among his superhero peers.

Where This Shows Up in Real Life

As The Arched Pedant's quest for complexity unfolded, he began to grapple with the burden it carried. The very same desire that fueled his intellectual superiority also threatened to hold him back. Overthinking and overcomplicating became hurdles that tested his resolve and hindered his progress. The delicate balance between his thirst for complexity and the practicality of action became an ongoing internal struggle.

Yet, in embracing complexity, The Arched Pedant discovered his unique strength. While others might shy away from intricate problems, he thrived in their midst. His ability to unravel complexities and devise creative solutions set him apart from his more straightforward counterparts. The nuanced understanding he possessed enabled him to navigate the intricacies of the world in ways that others couldn't comprehend.

Through his journey, The Arched Pedant underwent a profound evolution as a superhero. He grew not only intellectually but also emotionally and spiritually. He began to recognize the value of simplicity in certain situations and learned to discern when complexity was necessary and when it only served to hinder progress. The Arched Pedant's pursuit of intellectual superiority became tempered with humility, allowing him to wield his unconventional powers for the greater good.

Finding the Balance

In unveiling the origin story of The Arched Pedant, we witness the birth of a superhero driven by a desire for intellectual superiority and an insatiable thirst for complexity. However, as his journey unfolds, we learn a valuable lesson about the pitfalls of overcomplication and the superiority of simple solutions. From his early years and encounter with complexity to the challenges he faced, The Arched Pedant's evolution teaches us that sometimes the most effective and impactful solutions lie in simplicity.

The Arched Pedant's relentless pursuit of complexity, while admirable, often hindered his ability to act swiftly and make decisions effectively. The burden of overcomplication weighed him down, causing delays and creating unnecessary obstacles. Through his struggles, we realize that simplicity is a powerful tool that enables us to navigate through the complexities of life with ease.

The unique strength The Arched Pedant possessed, born from his embrace of complexity, allowed him to unravel intricate problems and devise creative solutions. However, he also came to understand the profound value of simplicity in certain situations. Sometimes, the most elegant and efficient solutions are the simplest ones, and it is the ability to recognize and embrace this simplicity that truly sets one apart.

In software and projects, this shows up all the time.

Simple solutions become layered with unnecessary complexity. Systems grow harder to maintain. Decisions take longer than they should.

What starts as a desire to “do things properly” can quickly turn into over-engineering.

The Arched Pedant's journey of self-discovery and growth teaches us to seek balance in our own lives. It encourages us to navigate the delicate line between the desire to fully understand and optimise everything and humility, recognizing that simplicity can often lead to greater clarity, efficiency, and genuine heroism.

As we close the chapter on The Arched Pedant's origin story, let us remember the morale it imparts: that in a world enamored by complexity, the power of simplicity should not be underestimated. By embracing simplicity, we can navigate through life's challenges with grace and effectiveness, finding elegant solutions that bring about lasting impact. May The Arched Pedant's tale inspire us all to seek the beauty of simplicity in a world that often overcomplicates.

Overcomplication is one of the most common problems in software and systems.

I spend a lot of time helping simplify things, remove unnecessary complexity, and make systems easier to understand and maintain.

If something feels more complicated than it should be, take a look at my TechFix service.

Why Modern Cars Are Overcomplicated (And Less Reliable Because of It)

If you’ve driven both older and newer cars, you’ll probably recognise how much more complex modern vehicles have become.

Some of that technology improves safety and comfort—but a lot of it adds complexity without clear value.

Modern cars are packed with technology. Some of it improves safety and comfort—but a lot of it adds complexity without clear value.

From experience, that extra complexity often leads to more faults, higher costs, and a worse overall driving experience.

The Problem: More Tech, More Failure Points

One of the most significant downsides of the excessive technology in modern cars is the impact on their reliability. The more complex the systems, the more chances there are for malfunctions and failures. Unlike the simpler vehicles of the past, modern cars are now filled with numerous electronic components that can go awry, leaving us stranded and frustrated. As we'll soon discover, the irony lies in the fact that these intricate systems are often unnecessary and contribute to skyrocketing repair costs.

When Features Get in the Way

Lane assist works well on motorways—but on rural roads it often fights the driver. Instead of helping, it becomes something you have to manage. The constant intervention and alarms can be more of a nuisance than a help, forcing us to fight against the system just to maintain control. Shouldn't driving be an experience where we retain command over our vehicle's movements?

Another example of unnecessary technology is the electronic handbrake, a feature that replaces the traditional manual lever. Sure, it may seem convenient, but at what cost? These systems add complexity and increase the likelihood of malfunctions. Furthermore, they require specialized maintenance and repairs, leading to inflated expenses when something goes wrong. Is the slight convenience really worth the potential headaches and expenses?

When Even Basic Things Break

A Comedy of Errors: Personal experiences highlight the unreliability of certain advanced features. Take, for instance, the automatic wipers that activate randomly even when turned off. Imagine driving under the scorching sun, only to have your wipers unexpectedly swipe across your windshield. Such persistent faults not only diminish the driving experience but also reflect poorly on the overall quality of the vehicle. If even the basic features cannot be relied upon, what does it say about the car as a whole?

The Bigger Pattern: Over-Engineering

Massive SUVs have also become a symbol of excess and unnecessary opulence. With their imposing presence, oversized wheels, and extravagant price tags, these vehicles are often seen as an embodiment of conspicuous consumption. They not only consume vast amounts of resources during production but also have a greater impact on the environment due to their weight and fuel consumption. Are these behemoths truly necessary, or do they merely serve to stroke our egos?

What Actually Works: Simplicity

In contrast to the trend of overcomplicated modern cars, there is a growing appreciation for simpler, more reliable vehicles of the past. 

Older cars weren’t perfect, but they were predictable. You could understand them, fix them, and rely on them.

Many yearn for the days when cars were less burdened by unnecessary technology and more focused on the essentials. Classic models, like the old Defender, exemplify the timeless charm and dependability that seem lacking in their modern counterparts. Perhaps it's time we reevaluate our priorities and consider what truly matters in a car.

Every extra system is another thing that can fail—and another thing that needs diagnosing and fixing.

What This Means

The issue here isn’t technology—it’s unnecessary complexity.

Adding more features often feels like progress, but it usually increases cost, reduces reliability, and makes systems harder to manage.

In practice, that means valuing simplicity, understanding how things work, and questioning whether a feature actually adds value.

Overcomplicated systems aren’t limited to cars—they show up in websites, forms, and everyday tech too.

I spend a lot of time simplifying systems and fixing things that have become harder than they should be.

You can take a look at my TechFix service if that sounds familiar.

The Joy of Fixing Things (And Why I Always Try First)

If something breaks, my first instinct is always the same—how can I fix it?

It’s not something I think about. It’s just how I’m wired.

Starting Small: Fixing the Door Lock

I took some time to fix our bathroom door lock the other night. It had stopped working and led to a few awkward moments.

It had been broken for weeks, but I kept putting it off—until it became unavoidable.

I removed the lock, straightened the cam with a quick tap, added some WD40, and put it back together.

It worked perfectly. Smooth and solid again.

It took 10 minutes. The real question was—why didn’t I fix it sooner?

Learning by Doing

The benefits of fixing are obvious—time, money, and understanding.

Our fridge started making a noise that gradually got worse. The fan bearing had worn, causing it to rub and eventually fail.

I tried a quick fix using a makeshift bush. It worked briefly, then failed again.

Eventually I replaced the motor and fan properly—and the problem was solved.

Fixing it taught me how the system actually worked—not just how to replace parts.

When Fixing Gets More Complex

Some problems aren’t simple.

The tumble dryer had been repaired multiple times—belts, heaters, resets—but the real issue was the tension pulley seizing.

Not Everything Works First Time

The first fix didn’t last.

I eventually replaced the pulley with a different design using proper bearings.

That solved it properly—and improved the original design.

The Bigger Pattern

This isn’t just about fixing things. It’s a way of thinking.

When something breaks, you can either replace it—or understand it.

Fixing forces you to slow down and learn how the system actually works.

Where This Shows Up

• How I Think (Visual Thinking) — how I naturally break down systems
• LEGO Technic — where this mindset started
• Modern Cars — why overcomplicated systems fail

What This Means

Fixing things isn’t just practical—it’s a way of understanding systems.

Replacing something is often quicker, but fixing it builds knowledge and confidence.

In practice, that means taking the time to understand how things work rather than immediately replacing them.

Not everything needs replacing—sometimes it just needs understanding.

I spend a lot of time fixing and simplifying systems, whether that’s physical or digital.

You can take a look at my TechFix service if you’ve got something that should be fixable but isn’t.

Remembering a Space Shuttle Launch in Florida in the 1990s

With the SpaceX launch today, and its unfortunate blow-up shortly after, it reminded me of having the opportunity to watch a space shuttle launch.

It was a few years ago when we were on holiday in Florida. It was just a typical fly-drive trip, starting in Orlando and moving around, booking somewhere new each night.

Watching the Launch

We ended up on the east coast near Cocoa Beach. Several hotels were full, and we were eventually told there was a shuttle launch overnight.

After finding somewhere to stay, we set an alarm for 2am and drove to the beach. It was busy—lots of people had gathered.

It was almost pitch black apart from the occasional torch. A radio broadcast the live countdown, and we were told to watch across the bay. You wouldn’t hear it—but you would see it.

As the countdown reached zero, the sky lit up. Slowly, the shuttle rose into the air—silent at first—gradually climbing and arcing higher and higher.

Eventually, it became smaller and smaller. There was cheering on the beach, and we headed back to the hotel and bed. The next morning, it was just another sunny Florida day—but we had seen a shuttle launch.

The Part That Stayed With Me

A few years later, we visited the Kennedy Space Center. Walking under a decommissioned shuttle, I noticed something surprising—the switch that told the system the undercarriage was closed was just a simple twin-wire microswitch. The kind you might find in a fridge.

I had expected something far more complex. But it wasn’t.

What stuck with me wasn’t just the launch—it was seeing how something so complex could rely on something so simple.

A shuttle launch looks like the pinnacle of engineering. But underneath it, there are still basic components doing very simple jobs.

That contrast stayed with me.

Even the most complex systems are often built on surprisingly simple components.

I spend a lot of time helping simplify systems and make them easier to understand and work with.

You can take a look at my TechFix service if that resonates.

Why I Use Todoist to Keep Things Simple

Staying organized in today's busy world can be a challenge, but with Todoist, it's made easy. This app has become a personal favorite of mine, and in this blog post, I'll describe how Todoist is structured, and why it's such an effective tool for staying on top of your daily tasks.

Why Most To-Do Systems Don’t Work

Most to-do systems fail because they try to do too much. They add structure, categories, priorities, and rules—but in doing so, they become harder to use than the problem they’re trying to solve. When capturing and managing tasks takes effort, people stop using the system altogether.

It’s not the features that matter—it’s how little friction there is in using them.

What Todoist Gets Right

One of the things that sets Todoist apart from other to-do apps is its clean, intuitive layout. Whether you're using it on your laptop or your smartphone, the interface is always the same, making it easy to navigate no matter where you are. Tasks are organized into different views, which are accessed via the sidebar on the left-hand side of the screen.

How I Actually Use It

The views in Todoist are designed to help you stay on top of your tasks, and there are three main ones to choose from:

• Inbox - The inbox is where new tasks are added. This is a great feature because it allows you to quickly jot down anything that comes to mind without having to worry about where it should go. Later on, you can assign tasks to specific projects.
• Today - The Today view shows you all the tasks that are due today. This is a great way to stay focused on what needs to be done right now.
• Upcoming - The upcoming view shows you tasks that are due in the next 7 days. This gives you a clear idea of what's coming up and allows you to plan your week accordingly.

What Makes It Work

It’s not the features that matter—it’s how little friction there is in using them.

Filters are another great feature of Todoist that allows you to organize your tasks in a more customized way. You can create filters based on specific criteria, such as due dates, priority levels, and labels. This makes it easy to see all the tasks that meet certain criteria and helps you stay focused on what needs to be done.

Projects are the main way to organize your tasks in Todoist. You can create as many projects as you need, and each one can have its own set of tasks. For example, you might have a project for work-related tasks and another for personal tasks. You can also create sub-projects within a larger project to break tasks down into smaller, more manageable parts.

Labels are a feature in Todoist that allows you to split your tasks into actual projects. You can create labels for each of your projects, and each label can have its own color. This makes it easy to see at a glance which project a task belongs to. For example, if you have a work-related project, you can assign a "work" label to all the tasks related to that project. This helps you stay organized and ensures that all your tasks are properly sorted.

This is very similar to how I approach fixing things—understand the system, simplify it, and remove unnecessary friction.

It also links to how I naturally think about systems in visual thinking.

Why I’ve Stuck With It

Todoist is a simple, effective to-do app that can help you stay organized and on top of your tasks. With its clean layout, customizable filters, and project organization, it's easy to see why it's become such a popular tool for productivity. Whether you're a busy professional or a busy parent, Todoist can help you manage your daily tasks with ease.

Simple systems are often the most effective—especially when they reduce friction rather than add complexity.

I spend a lot of time helping simplify tools, processes, and workflows to make them easier to use and maintain.

You can take a look at my TechFix service if you’re trying to simplify something that’s become too complicated.

Date-Based File Naming: A Simple Way to Organise Digital Files

Most file organisation problems start with one simple issue: you can’t find things when you need them.

That’s why I like date-based file names. They give files a natural order and make digital clutter easier to manage.

The Problem: Files Get Messy Quickly

If you're like most people, you've probably accumulated a lot of digital files over the years. Whether it's documents, photos, or other media, keeping track of all of these files can be a challenge. One way to make it easier is by using a consistent file naming convention.

One popular convention is to use a date-based naming convention. This involves naming files using the date they were created or modified, along with a brief description of the file's contents. 

How Date-Based File Naming Works

For example, a photo taken on April 5th, 2023 might be named "23-04-05 - Beach Day.jpg".

Why It Works

Using a date-based naming convention offers several benefits:

• Easy sorting: One of the biggest advantages of using a date-based naming convention is that it makes it easy to sort files in chronological order. Whether you're looking at files in a folder or using a search function, having files sorted by date can make it much easier to find what you're looking for.
• At-a-glance information: Another advantage of using a date-based naming convention is that it provides at-a-glance information about when a file was created or modified. This can be especially helpful when dealing with large numbers of files or when trying to track down a specific version of a document.
• Consistency: By using a consistent naming convention across all of your files, you can ensure that everything is organized in a logical and predictable way. This can save you time and frustration in the long run.
• Compatibility: Date-based naming conventions are widely recognized and can be easily understood by others. This can be especially helpful when sharing files with others or when working with different software programs.

Where It Can Go Wrong

Of course, there are some potential downsides to using a date-based naming convention as well. For example, if you're not diligent about updating file names when files are modified, the date-based naming convention can become confusing or inaccurate over time. Additionally, some people may find the convention cumbersome or difficult to remember.

Why I Still Use It

Date-based file naming is not perfect, but it solves a real problem with very little effort.

It makes files easier to sort, easier to scan, and easier to understand later. For me, that is the point of a good system: it should reduce thinking, not add more.

This links closely to how I use the PARA system to keep digital files and notes easier to manage.

Overall, however, using a date-based naming convention can be a helpful tool for keeping your digital files organized and easy to manage. So why not give it a try? Whether you're working with photos, documents, or other types of media, a date-based naming convention can help you stay on top of your digital clutter and find what you need when you need it.

Small systems, like clear file names, can make everyday digital work much easier.

I help simplify messy websites, forms, files, and workflows so they are easier to manage.

You can take a look at my TechFix service if your digital setup has become harder than it needs to be.

How the PARA System Helped Me Simplify Digital Organisation

Digital clutter creates friction.

When files, notes, and information end up scattered everywhere, even simple tasks become harder than they should be.

That’s what led me to the PARA system.

The Problem with Digital Clutter

The PARA system is a simple but powerful way to organize your digital life. Developed by Tiago Forte, it stands for Projects, Areas, Resources, and Archives. Each of these categories represents a different aspect of your digital life and can be used to help you manage everything from work projects to personal hobbies.

What the PARA System Is

Let's break down each category and see how it works:

1. 
   Projects: This category refers to any task or project you're currently working on. It could be a work project, a personal project, or anything else that requires your attention. Each project should have a dedicated folder or tag that contains all relevant files and documents.
2. Areas: Areas represent different areas of your life, such as work, home, hobbies, or health. Each area should have a separate folder or tag that contains all relevant files and documents.
3. Resources: This category includes any reference material or information that you might need in the future. This could include articles, books, notes, or anything else that you might want to refer back to later. Resources should be organized in a way that makes them easy to find and access when needed.
4. Archives: Archives refer to any files or documents that are no longer needed but are still worth keeping for future reference. This could include old projects, emails, or anything else that you might want to keep for historical purposes. Archives should be organized in a way that makes them easy to access but doesn't clutter up your current projects and areas.

How I Started Using It

So how does this all work in practice? Here's an example:

Let's say you're working on a project for work. You would create a Projects folder and then create a subfolder for the specific project you're working on. Inside that subfolder, you would save all relevant files and documents related to that project. If you have any reference material that might be useful for that project, you would save it in the Resources folder with a tag or label that makes it easy to find later. Once the project is complete, you would move any relevant files to the Archives folder to keep for future reference.

Why It Works for Me

I recently adopted the PARA system in my own life, and it's been revolutionary. No longer do I create random folders to store things only to forget where I have stored them. It takes out a lot of the thought and makes things so much simpler. An item immediately falls into a home, and I can easily find it later.

The biggest benefit wasn’t better folders—it was reducing the amount of thinking needed to organise things.

Instead of constantly deciding where something should go, most items naturally fall into one of four simple categories.

Adopting the PARA system does take some initial setup time, but it's well worth the investment. By organizing your digital life in this way, you'll save time, reduce stress, and be more productive overall.

Keeping Organisation Simple

What I like most about the PARA system is its simplicity.

Good organisational systems should reduce friction, not create more of it. PARA gives just enough structure to stay organised without becoming complicated to maintain.

This also connects closely to how I use date-based file naming to keep digital information easier to manage.

It follows the same thinking behind why I use Todoist—simple systems with low friction tend to work best.

Simple organisational systems can remove a surprising amount of friction from daily work.

I spend a lot of time simplifying websites, workflows, files, and digital processes to make them easier to manage and maintain.

You can take a look at my TechFix service if your digital setup has become harder to manage than it should be.

Why We Stopped Tracking Bugs in Excel

One thing I’ve noticed over the years is that software projects often become harder to manage because the systems around them become unnecessarily complicated.

At the time, we were tracking bugs in spreadsheets, and it quickly became messy with multiple versions, email chains, and poor visibility across the team.

The Problem with Spreadsheet Tracking

I hate managing software faults with a spreadsheet. It normally ends in a mess, with multiple versions, poorly formatted, emailed here there, and everywhere.

The real issue wasn’t the spreadsheet itself—it was the lack of visibility, ownership, and workflow around the process.

To avoid this and not having access to a real software bug-tracking tool like fogbugz I quickly set up something in Trello.

Why Trello Worked Better

Trello is brilliant and I have many boards for various jobs on the go at one time. It is a simple free-to-use tool for managing simple tasks and workflows.

 

I set up 6 lists flowing from left to right. New bugs can be added by the team or by the customer. They can be entered directly as a new card or via email by links provided. The email to the board facility is brilliant and it will create a new card automatically.

Visual Workflows and Team Collaboration

The bug tracker board can be accessed by anyone who has access to the team. When connected to the team they can then take control of individual bugs and they can be assigned a bug. So at a glance, you can see John is working on bug #27, and Tom is testing #32. When John has completed the fix for bug #27 he can move the bug to the ready for test list and assign the bug to Tom. When Tom tests the bug and it passes the test Tom can move it to Done. If it is not fixed he can move it back to in progress and assign it back to John and add a comment as to why it did not pass the test.

What made the system effective wasn’t complexity—it was visibility. Everyone could immediately see what was happening, who owned what, and where bottlenecks were appearing.

Colors can be added to each bug indicating the criticality of the fault. So at a glance, you quickly see the red for critical and can concentrate on these first.

Bugs can include attachments, so you can take a screenshot of a fault and quickly add it to the bug to help with the resolution. You can add multiple items to a bug, so if there are a number of similar faults these can be grouped into one bug and make use of the checklist facility. Tick them off as they are resolved.

What Stayed With Me

So there you go. Trello as a bug tracker. It's not perfect, but I set up ours in under 10 minutes, you can have your whole team collaborating together working through problems or changes. It's much better than yet another Excel spreadsheet and you can see at a glance visually the status of the bugs.

Looking back, this probably reinforced something I still believe now: simple systems that people actually use are often more effective than complicated processes designed for perfection.

A surprising amount of software delivery problems are really workflow and communication problems underneath.

This also connects closely to my thoughts on overcomplication in systems and how unnecessary complexity often creates more problems than it solves.

It links naturally to my reflections on understanding systems properly rather than simply adding more layers around them.

A lot of the same thinking also appears in my posts about organisation and workflow simplification.

Good systems are often simpler and more visible than people expect.

I spend a lot of time helping simplify workflows, untangle technical problems, and make systems easier to manage and maintain.

You can take a look at my TechFix service if that sounds useful.