Automation expert Tim Stringer joins the Automators to discuss Mac, iOS, and web-based automation. Topics include automating tasks with macros, Zapier, and shortcuts, using tools and applications like Ibekon and CleanMyMac X, managing templates in OmniFocus, exploring the use of stream decks, automating tasks and delegating work with Zapier, WooCommerce, and Gravity Forms, and discussing Omnifocus shortcut support and automation modernization.
Automating car routines can enhance the driving experience, save time, and reduce friction.
Automating tasks in OmniFocus using Keyboard Maestro and Shortcuts improves workflow, productivity, and consistency.
Leveraging Zapier for WordPress integrations improves efficiency, eliminates manual tasks, and fosters collaboration across tools and team members.
Deep dives
Automating Car Routines
One of the main automations discussed in the podcast episode is a car routine. Using an iBeacon placed in the car, the speaker has created a shortcut that triggers various actions when getting in the car. For example, it prompts whether to start playing a podcast, pulls up a list of upcoming events, sends a message to the speaker's wife with estimated time of arrival if heading home, and more. This automation reduces friction, saves time, and enhances the overall driving experience.
OmniFocus Automation
Another major focus of the episode is automating tasks in OmniFocus, a task management app. The speaker uses Keyboard Maestro and Shortcuts to quickly access and navigate through perspectives, activate quick open, create custom templates for projects using AppleScripts, and more. These automations help streamline workflow, enhance productivity, and ensure consistency in task management across different platforms.
Zapier Integration
The speaker also discusses leveraging Zapier as a powerful cloud-based automation tool. They highlight how they use Zapier to integrate different services in their WordPress website, such as WooCommerce and Gravity Forms. Examples of automations include creating tasks in Asana for failed payments, sending notifications via Pushover for billing inquiries, and more. These integrations significantly improve efficiency, eliminate manual tasks, and foster collaboration across different tools and team members.
Stream Deck and Keyboard Maestro Automation
The podcast episode discusses the use of Stream Deck and Keyboard Maestro in automating tasks. The hosts share their experiences with using Stream Deck to trigger various actions on their Macs, such as adjusting lighting, putting Apple TV to sleep, and executing Keyboard Maestro shortcuts. They highlight the convenience and satisfaction of using physical buttons to initiate automated actions and suggest that the Stream Deck provides visual cues and reminders for different work modes. The hosts also mention that Keyboard Maestro now supports Stream Deck, allowing for customizable button icons that reflect the status of different macro actions.
Toolbox Pro and URL Triggers for Shortcuts
The episode also introduces Toolbox Pro and URL triggers as useful tools for enhancing shortcut functionality. The hosts discuss how Toolbox Pro provides additional actions and capabilities for shortcuts, such as audio detection and transportation modes. They mention that Toolbox Pro expands the range of automation possibilities by combining features from Keyboard Maestro and Shortcuts. The hosts also highlight the versatility of URL triggers, which can be recognized by multiple automation platforms, including Online, Shortcuts, and Keyboard Maestro. They recommend exploring URL triggers for expanded automation options and encourage listeners to try out the Stream Deck app as well.
Pingdom: Start monitoring your website performance and availability today, and get instant alerts when an outage occurs or a site transaction fails. Use offer code AUTOMATORS to get 30% off. Offer expires on January 31 2021.
Kensington: The Professionals Choice. Find the right docking solutions for your organization today.
