Many people are obsessed with using just one app for their whole PKM.
I think it’s a wrong approach, mainly because it’s impossible.
This is the approach I use after more than 30 years of testing things.
For me, the right approach is combining centralization and decentralization.
In life, balance tends to work.
I explain why.
Why Should You Try to Centralize?
It’s OK to centralize because:
- You simplify your life. The fewer apps, the more clarity you get.
- You can go deeper into all the features an app can give to you (that it’s a lot!).
I try to centralize and simplify in my 4 core systems:
- Capture
- Process
- Act
- Think
In my case, Obsidian is “the one” because I’ve centralized on it 3 systems: process, act, think.
My capture system is centralized in just 2 apps: My Mind and Readwise Read Later app.
Just 3 apps to manage 80% of my PKM.
Why Should You Also Try to Decentralize?
Some apps are really good at very specific features. I call them “satellite apps”.
Examples:
- Outlining
- Reminders
- Visual Thinking
When I have something complex to handle, I love visual apps to get the bird’s eye’s view that really helps me.
Or, if I have to remember something, I haven’t found a better app than Due.
Takeaways
- Your goal is to have as many apps as you need to feel comfortable using your workflows.
- Try to minimize because simplicity equals peace of mind.
- Try to take the best out of apps that perform really well at a very specific feature.
- If you make the best of both approaches, your PKM will drive you to a fantastic life, performing at your best without stressing out.