Always Be Ranking

Ranking work lists boosts impact by focusing on what matters most; always prioritize instead of just listing tasks.

  • Ranked lists > regular lists: Simply making lists isn’t enough—ranking items ensures you tackle what truly matters.
  • Constraints dictate prioritization: Most teams won’t finish every item due to time, resources, or shifting priorities; ranking makes sure the most impactful problems are addressed.
  • Intentional ranking predicts impact: Reviewing and ordering a list forces the team to predict which issues will have the greatest effect.
  • Pareto Principle ("80/20 Rule") applies: Usually, one big issue causes most pain (e.g., a flaky test suite), and fixing it can remove downstream symptoms.
  • Examples clarify the approach: When deciding how to improve something like web performance, deliberate ranking helps you focus on the actions with the biggest payoff.
  • Effective management communication: Decision makers prefer hearing about the highest-priority idea, not just a brainstorming list. Start strong—pitch the standout issue.
  • Avoid seeming petty: As Bob Iger notes, "Start petty, seem petty." Always approach discussions with big, impactful ideas first.
  • Designed for single-use lists: Ranking works best for lists where you aim to address a few key items, not for endless backlogs.
  • Core takeaway: Anytime you create a work list, of any kind, rank it—"always be ranking" to maximize your time and outcomes.

The full post is available here.