Thinking rock is a cross-platform process based GTD desktop application, and one of the most complete Getting things done software implementation ever.
The application is a big download (around 38MB), and relies on Java runtime libraries (JRE), which guarantees cross-platform execution, but also providing a little unusual user interface, especially for Windows users. Therefore, it is a well tested application by approximately 6000 users, according to the TR web page, with a complete documentation and an alive community.
Thinking rock is designed for advanced GTD users, with a clear and deep understanding of the methodology. This is the reason you may find it a bit complicated, especially at the beginning, so make sure you have your copy of David Allen’s book near, and prepared to be fully organized.
There are many screens and functions into Thinking rock, and the most of them are injected into the main application through plugins. Users can disable the plugins they do not use, or update them though the internet. The free version’s basic functionality is more than enough for casual GTD users, but there are even more functions available for licensed users along with improved performance.
Killer features:
- Collect thoughts screen
- Extended reporting
- Reference items
- Backup and Archive of data
- Plugins
- Customizable keyboard shortcuts
Weaknesses:
- Complicated for novice users
- No cloud sync of data
Supported elements: Data files, contexts, criteria, topics (areas of focus), actions, projects/sub-projects, goals, reference items, recurring actions, delegation with email.
Supported services: Import and export (txt, xml), printing, multiple data files, backup, archive, emailing service, project templates
Mobile access: iPhone app (syncs through wi-fi) and soon for Android
Cost: Free / $40 licensed
Conclusion : Thinking rock is maybe the most complete and deep GTD application, and its process based model makes it unique from the vast majority of organizer applications you will find today. It just demands a good understanding of the GTD principles, and a little time to begin with.
In my opinion all GTD perfectionists should definitely give it a try.Users who wants just a to-do list for their needs should be looking for something else.