Thing 23 | Evaluation of 23 Mobile Things
Go back to your thoughts/ideas about mobile devices and apps. Has anything changed as a result of this experience?
I have definitely changed my opinion on the benefits of apps. Prior to this program I considered most apps (aside from the few I already had) as time-fillers. Through this program I have discovered plenty of apps that affirmed my opinion, but I was also pleasantly surprised by the amount of apps I would now consider time-savers. I’m a very routine person and have made a lot of manual schedules, budgeting tools, etc. that were available to me all along at my fingertips.
What were your favorite Things and discoveries?
My favorite discovery was Appsgonefree because it lead me to the app Spendbook. In Thing 21 I considered writing up a Personal Finance app in my surprise it wasn’t one of the 23 things. After realizing I only use my personal bank and credit card apps, I decided to discuss an app applicable to a bigger following.
When I discovered Spendbook, I realized I had finally found the personal finance app I had been wanting for a long time, but too uninterested in apps to look for (or pay for!). I think Appsgonefree will be a good way to for me to continue to discover new apps that will benefit my life without having to spend a lot of time researching apps.
How did you connect with others doing the 23 Mobile Things?
Aside from reading blog posts with the hashtag #23mobilethingsmn I didn’t do much connecting. My boss and I discussed which apps we were using and used that as an opportunity to try different apps.
Were there any take-a-ways or unexpected outcomes from this program that surprised you?
My take-a-way was that I was unjustly anti-apps for no good reason. While I still think there are a lot of apps out there that are over-priced or time-wasters, I now understand that there are plenty of apps that are useful and should be considered.
What could we do differently to improve upon this program’s format or content?
I work well with multiple deadlines, which doesn’t apply to everyone, but I think it might have been best to make a deadline for Thing 1 – 4, then a new deadline for Thing 5 – 10, etc. It’s easy with a busy work schedule to say “It’s just 23 things, I’ll get to it tomorrow or next week” then to find yourself very close to the end of the program yet still wanting to complete it.
If we offered another 23 Things program like this in the future would you participate?
I would participate if I found the topic relevant or interesting. I spent a lot of time reading about app suggestions, testing out the app and writing my review. When I found a ‘thing’ uninteresting the task instantly became more stressful than insightful.
How would you describe your learning experience in one word or in one sentence, so we could use your words to promote 23 Things learning activities to others?
No two people will have the same 23 Things experience.










