Wunderlist, the popular task management and to-do list app, is officially shutting down on May 6. This decision has left many users searching for alternatives to manage their tasks and projects effectively. If you're one of those users, it's essential to know what this means for you and how to make the transition smoothly. In this article, we’ll explore the implications of this shutdown and provide you with valuable information on transitioning to other productivity tools.
Understanding the Shutdown of Wunderlist
The decision to discontinue Wunderlist was made by Microsoft, which acquired the app in 2015. Since that acquisition, Microsoft has focused on integrating Wunderlist's features into its own task management application, Microsoft To Do. Although Wunderlist has been a favorite among users for its simplicity and user-friendly interface, the shutdown is a part of Microsoft's strategy to streamline its productivity offerings.
Key Dates to Remember
As the shutdown date approaches, it's crucial to keep track of key dates related to the transition:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| May 6, 2020 | Wunderlist will be officially shut down. Users will lose access to their lists and tasks. |
| April 30, 2020 | Wunderlist will stop synchronizing data. Any changes made after this date will not be saved. |
| March 2020 | Microsoft To Do will continue to be available for users looking for a replacement. |
Exporting Your Data
If you want to keep your tasks and lists from Wunderlist, you must export your data before the shutdown happens. Fortunately, Wunderlist allows users to export their lists in a simple manner. Here are the steps:
- Open Wunderlist and navigate to the list you want to export.
- Click on the three dots in the top right corner.
- Select "Export List".
- Choose a location on your computer to save the exported file.
Ensure you complete this process for all your lists, as they will not be recoverable once the shutdown occurs.
Alternatives to Wunderlist
With Wunderlist shutting down, many users are exploring alternatives for task management. Here are some of the most effective tools available:
| App | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Microsoft To Do | Integration with Outlook, shared lists, and My Day feature | Existing Microsoft users |
| Todoist | Powerful task organization, project templates, and collaboration tools | Advanced task management |
| Any.do | Calendar integration, reminders, and cross-platform syncing | Users who need a combination of tasks and calendar |
| Asana | Project tracking, team collaboration, and customizable workflows | Teams and project managers |
Each of these alternatives has unique features that may suit your needs better than Wunderlist. Take the time to explore these options and find what works best for your workflow.
Transitioning to a New Tool
As you move away from Wunderlist, here are some tips to make the transition smoother:
- Familiarize Yourself: Spend time learning the new app's interface and features. Most task management apps offer tutorials or help sections.
- Import Your Data: Many task management apps allow you to import data from other tools. Check if your new app supports importing from Wunderlist.
- Start Small: Begin by using your new tool for a few tasks before fully committing to it. This will allow you to adjust gradually.
- Utilize Integrations: Explore integrations with other tools you use to enhance your productivity.
Conclusion
The shutdown of Wunderlist on May 6 marks the end of an era for many loyal users. However, this transition also presents an opportunity to explore new and innovative productivity tools. By understanding the implications of the shutdown, exporting your data, and considering alternatives like Microsoft To Do, you can ensure a seamless transition. Remember to adapt gradually to your new tool and make the most of the features it offers. Embrace this change, and you may find that a new app better suits your task management needs.
