Most of us run our operations with an endless, revolving “To Do” list. Just as something gets crossed off, another important task is added. It is always great to learn of new ways to improve operations, and save valuable time, because then items get checked off faster, and more can be achieved overall.

Google Alerts is a great example of a system that can speed things up, by improving how our access to information is managed. Using it effectively means that you can be informed about news or issues surrounding your operation, cause or organisation in a time effective manner. When you have it set to the parameters most useful for you, Google Alerts sends links to relevant web pages directly to your inbox. This means you stay up to date without needing to read reams of news or press releases. You will no longer rely on others to bring you the details. They will come to you, so you can be a source of information for others.

To have Google Alerts work well for you:

1  Be sure to start at http://www.google.com/alerts.

This is a free service. Note there are competing services at similar addresses that require payment.

2  Enter the topic of your search.

You will immediately see results appear, so you can change your wording if they are not what you are looking for. All tactics that work in a regular Google search will work here, such as exceptions, quotations, negations etc.

3  Create the alert.

Enter your email address and hit the blue box “Create Your Alert”. Once you have confirmed your request through your email account, you will begin receiving results.

4  Check your parameters

There are several options for source type, frequency and volume, so you can adjust from where, how often and how many alerts you get. Make sure they are set to your preferences. These can be changed at any time, as your needs change.

5  Repeat as necessary

You might like to receive an alert whenever your organisation is mentioned in the press, or whenever there are news items about the cause your organisation addresses, or the location where most your stakeholders live. Setting multiple alerts will help you keep on top of multiple issues, or different aspects that will help you remain aware of the current overall picture.

Take some time to set your alerts today. The effort to stay up to date will not be time wasted.