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Has anyone asked for this yet? It would be incredibly helpful if I could check off the items in a single task one by one as subtasks, rather than creating separate tasks for each. I know this is approaching a "project management" status, but would be helpful in the context of "remembering the milk", too.
Posted at 1:53pm on October 19, 2005
+1
Posted at 6:27pm on October 29, 2005
says:Without wishing to complicate RTM, this would be great.
Posted at 6:08am on October 30, 2005
I want this too.
Posted at 6:44pm on November 2, 2005
This is a good idea that I would want also, but it's important to me that the simplicity of the interface be maintained.
Posted at 10:46pm on November 2, 2005
+1
This would be great for me. I have many projects that can be broken down into tasks, subtasks, etc. Currently I can work with this by creating extra lists for subtasks, but it's a clunky work-around.
Posted at 4:22am on November 3, 2005
Subtasks that can be collapsed.
Posted at 6:18am on November 9, 2005
I have been listing sub-tasks as notes attached to the main task. Works for me. You could also create a separate tab for large multi-step projects and list sub-tasks as individual task on that tab.
Collapsable sub-tasks sounds nice in theory, but I love the simplicity of this interface and I'd hate to see it become cluttered and cumbersome.
Posted at 11:25pm on November 9, 2005
The reason that we haven't done subtasks is that it would be extremely difficult to do without complicating the interface (and we've already packed a fair few features into this interface :)
Not to say that we would never do it in the future -- but it would require some serious thought to ensure the simplicity of Remember The Milk was maintained.
Posted at 1:23am on November 10, 2005
Well, indeed that's the dilemna. Everyone around here seems to think you've made pretty good decisions about the interface, and certainly there are some pretty poor interfaces on 'competing' tools. (Though to be fair, people who don't like it might not stick around long enough to post in the forums!)
So might it be possible to hide away something in the settings to "turn on" a more advanced interface for those that decide they want it? Maybe once this and some other wishlist items have appeared it might be easier to see how to add some more advanced things in this way.
Posted at 9:14pm on November 12, 2005
One simple way to implement this could be just indented lists in the current interface.
* TasK (V) <-- this will fold or unfold the subtask list
o Subtask1
o Subtask 2
You'll need to have a little more info in the right pane when a subtask is showing and some keyboard shortcuts. Some constraints/more options on when a task can be marked as completed (depending on subtasks).
I'd like this too, obviously.
Posted at 12:46am on November 14, 2005
I vote for subtasks too... this is the first limitation I came up against.
Posted at 12:53am on November 18, 2005
Yep need nested tasks
Posted at 1:52am on January 15, 2006
I would really like this feature as well. I have 4 lines worth of tabs of lists which means that I have less and less space to list the actual tasks. Some level of heirarchy would make all the difference to me.
Posted at 1:31pm on January 24, 2006
Please....subtasks. That would make RTM works with my life. Please.
Posted at 6:59pm on January 27, 2006
As we've now provided several ways to organize tasks (tags, lists, and Smart Lists), we have no plans to introduce subtasks.
A workaround for subtasks might be to use lists and tags -- for example, I have a list named 'Shopping', and within that list I've tagged tasks with 'supermarket', 'mall', etc. I can then view tasks tagged with 'supermarket' in my 'Shopping' list, which helps to break down the list.
Hope this helps!
Posted at 4:53am on January 28, 2006
I've been using RTM for a few weeks. I was about to suggest the "subtask" feature before I did a search to find this thread.
I support nested tasks or subtasks.
I'm wanting something like:
# buy concert tickets
# website redesign
# covert database to xml
# update css
# find new hosting provider
# install wordpress
# mail photos to Erin
I feel that listing the "subtasks" as individual tasks would clutter up my RTM main tasks page, so I don't want to add them.
It appears that RTM isn't really suited for project management. However, I must say, that in my search for decent project management software, I haven't found any that I want to use. I got excited when I first found RTM. I think it's a great tool for personal use. However, I'm hoping it will expand its features to better support project management.
Thanks.
Posted at 8:25pm on February 6, 2006
Sorry, I had started a new subtask thread before finding this one.
I've just started using RTM and will check out the lists and tags features.
Thanks!!!
Posted at 4:19pm on February 15, 2006
It will be greate to have the subtasks feature.
Posted at 2:15am on February 24, 2006
says:I think RTM works great for what it is -- personal task management. I don't think adding subtasks is a good idea for that very same reason. If you want to manage a work-related project, I would suggest using an actual project management application. Basecamp is what I use, and it works very well in that respect.
Posted at 1:19am on February 27, 2006
I can understand why the developers don't wish to implement subtasks.
The 'solution' of using lists/tags is a good one in general, though there is a possible problem of having too many lists/tags?
Has anyone tried this as a simple project management online tool?
http://www.ioutliner.com/
Hope it's ok to post the link
It is fairly basic, but has a neat way of adding/moving task. Certainly not a replacement for RTM, but maybe something also to use
But I'm going to pursue using lists/tags for now and see how it goes
Posted at 1:30pm on March 1, 2006
I initially wanted subtasks as well and suggested this Emily. I got the reply as above from her and I have to say now, that I totally agree with her.
Adding subtasks would complicate the view of the site - which is the strong point of RtM and it would trigger a whole lot of other requirements such as interdependencies between subtasks and before you know it, this is a project management tool and not an action list tool.
I suggest reading the "Getting Things Done" book by David Allen and understand why simple lists (Actions, Projects, WaitingFor, Someday/Maybe) sorted by e.g. @Office, @ Home, @Car, @Online etc. rules. Being able to add multiple tags even improves upon the GTD approach! You will not be able to do this by using a hierarchy of tasks.
Posted at 9:54pm on March 19, 2006
+1
Subtasks will be a challenge to implement, but would be great. To anyone who said it will be simple....it seems that way till you think about the details.
Nonetheless it would be a huge feature for a lot of people.
Also agree with the above comment about turning it on/off to keep the interface simple.
Reading the above -> I wonder if a label could be a task which can't be "completed" till all tasks with that label are. You could sort of nest these, but that might be too wierd.
Posted at 11:49pm on July 2, 2006
I wouldn't want this because of the aforementioned cluttering of the interface.
Perhaps you could just create a list to represent your main task, and then the subtasks go in that list. Then once you are done with the subtasks and the main task, just archive the list.
Or you could organize a pseudo hierarcy with tags and smart lists.
RTM is functional just enough to allow for these things to be artificially implemented by each user than to force every user to deal with it.
Posted at 1:25pm on July 6, 2006
If it were possible to turn this feature on/off then I think it would be incredibly helpful for those that would use it. And not affect the others.
I for one, would like to see subtasks and a way of ordering them. But recognize that it is no easy feat to implement and causes future enhancement delays as the level of complexity increases.
Posted at 2:31pm on July 6, 2006
+1 indented subtasks, simply set from the right hand toolbox via a "parent task" dropdown of tasks in the same list. or perhaps linked tasks? Realise the other ways of tagging tasks, I will try that and for now I will keep notes against each task. Is there a feature request to show the notes under each task (the first 15-20 words or so) with a [+] expand button to show the full notes. This would allow ppl to quickly browse their notes for a task and for me would negate the need for sub-tasks. Cheers, love the simple-ness of the app interface.
Posted at 11:03am on January 14, 2008
I would really like sub tasks as well. I found RTM after looking at Things (http://www.culturedcode.com/things/). Things is the perfect solution for what I want except it's not online.
Posted at 1:09am on January 20, 2008
I would REALLY love to see this implemented!
Posted at 7:39am on January 25, 2008
says:+1 - this would be huge.
Posted at 4:32pm on March 20, 2008
says:Ohhhh yes ! I vote for this. It would be easier to manage tasks by the GTD principles.
:-)
Posted at 7:04pm on March 25, 2008
I use Remember the milk to help me to control my projects. I know I need a tool for project management, but, if RTM could implement subtasks it wolud be very helpful for me.
Posted at 6:57pm on March 26, 2008
another "me too"
Posted at 7:28pm on March 27, 2008
I have to agree that this is by far the #1 issue that I would love.
Posted at 4:37pm on March 29, 2008
I also think that subtasks feature would make an extra positive difference pro RTM. And there is no conflict between GTD system and subtasks! Could subtasks feature could maybe be included as a pro user option. I think it would be a very useful implementation for RTM, specially if not the only possibility regarding the interface, but as an extra and valuable feature.
Posted at 6:00pm on March 29, 2008
says:Yes, it is what I mainly miss. It would be even nicer if they are automatically dependent tasks - In other words, they show on my list of things to do next only after the prior item in the list is completed - and all default to the do date of the "master" item.
Posted at 9:45pm on March 30, 2008
:-/
I just got 'April Fooled' by the subtasks thing - you almost had my $25. Not cool. Or particularly funny.
Anyway +1 fwiw
Posted at 5:39pm on April 1, 2008
says:Well, I think that was rather funny.
Please observe that the poster was Emely, not Emily.
Posted at 6:47am on April 2, 2008
says:As a web app programmer, I understand the complication that sub-tasks could add to the UI... but... perhaps there could be categorized lists or 'sub-lists' instead. That way, all that needs to be accounted for is a hierarchical relationship between the lists and not really the tasks.
For example: Most of my tasks are broken down by "Work" and "Personal"... but under work I might have a few lists... such as "Admin Tasks", "Project 1", "Project 2" ... or for "Personal" I might have "Outdoor work" to remind me of yearly maintenance around the house or "Cleaning" or "Workout" ...
I realize that there is tagging, and being new to RTM I have to play with this to see if it can help me w/ organization, but categorization of my lists so that my "Tasks" view doesn't have a million lists in it seems like it would be helpful.
Posted at 1:02pm on April 4, 2008
says:One way to get some subtask functionality could be tweaking the excellent Grease Monkey script (Firefox/Opera only) by masnare. See more in www.rememberthemilk.com/forums/tips/2943/
One way to implement subtasks:
Posted at 2:05pm on April 15, 2008
mash it up! if rtm doesnt use sub tasks then make use of the url link you can add onto a task to link through to sproutliner or ioutliner, this is my approach i like the siplicity of rtm and it works for me 99% of the time for bigger projects i link across. it would be great to see this embedded into rtm as standard but can understand why they dont
Posted at 8:03am on May 2, 2008
Yes!
Sub-tasks are the one feature I miss in all the GTD tools i've tried. I don't want the bloat of MS Project, but my goals do require more than a single action to complete.
I'll use the list/tag/label workaround suggested above until then.
Posted at 1:28am on May 19, 2008
I've just signed up for RTM and within 5 minutes I was looking for a sub-task option. All I need is to be able to add a few check boxes to a task, each with my own label. All of the 'clutter' (tags, location, reminders etc.) could remain at the task level. Using notes or tags is messy and fiddly and actually detracts from the simplicity of the tool.
Posted at 8:15am on May 19, 2008
I like how these guys do subtasks...
http://todoist.com/
Very easy to use and very flexible and able to do as many subtasks as required (ie. sub sub sub sub task).
I don't understand why rtm doesn't have subtasks. It was also the first thing I looked for when I signed up. Its also the only reason why I don't use rtm much, because theres no subtasks.
Posted at 3:25pm on May 19, 2008
I've moved to todoist.com, they actually seem to rate functionality.
Posted at 7:39am on May 27, 2008
Perhaps the word of a PRO user is listened to more carefully:
I also would love to have collapsible, recursive sub-tasks. Should not be complicated to implement (parent references in the data structure) nor to present to the user (tree widgets are used all over and are familiar to most users).
It should be implemented in a way that if a user does not create any sub-tasks, the UI will not change.
Please do not make me regret paying the subscription fee.
Posted at 11:39am on June 20, 2008
This is fairly simple to do with the existing structure. I do it for work:
Create a task for your first sub-task. For example:
Rewrite interface logic to robot
Tag this with your main project name. I use a predecessor character for organization.
+Packaging_Rewrite, @work, na
This indicates that it is part of the packaging system rewrite project, it is performed at work, and it is a next action.
Add the rest of your subtasks in the same way.
Finally, do a search for +Packaging_Rewrite. Save this as a smart list called Packaging Rewrite. The tab is your project, inside of that are your subtasks.
You can go a step further. Create a task called Packaging_Rewrite. Tag it as:
*Projects, +Packaging_Rewrite
Again, search for tag:*Projects. Smart list it. Now you have a list of your projects, and each project has a list of sub tasks.
Is the interface layout exactly what you want? Probably not. Does it accomplish the same thing that you are looking for? YMMV, but it works quite effectively for me!
Much of this concept was inspired / directly stolen from this thread:
http://www.rememberthemilk.com/forums/tips/2943/
--Tutunkommon
Posted at 5:30pm on June 23, 2008
Quite nice workaround... but it still remains a workaround.
I work for a software developing company and it never seize to amaze me the sometimes unexpected strong and sudden explicit conviction of the developers about to specifically do or specifically don't do things (change requests) in a certain way, in spite that there are dozens (in RTM-case probably: thousands) users and even co-workers and bosses literary screaming for certain changes in the software.
Mostly after months of hours and hours of endless debates and mind wrestling, begging, teasing, bargaining and threatening they suddenly 'flip a switch' and built it in a few hours and present it as if it was self-evident.
(And, my dear RTM-developers, of course: receive the world fame and glory during the standing ovation of masses of happily surprised customers who are all eagerly empty their wallets for you, and you will all get promoted to your dream job you have worked your whole life for!)
Posted at 9:02pm on June 30, 2008
This discussion shows that there is a real need (should I friendly say a lack ? ) for a "project" notion (or level) in RTM.
of course lists can be used for that (as suggested by Doug in RTM blog) but then lists can not at the same time gather tasks of the same field (because we would like thos lists to list projects too among tasks).
some kind of hierarchy is needed : a project level
At the same time I understand the motivation behing RTM people (Emily) that one of the magic of RTM is making a boring subject (to do lists) an enjoyable application we go to with pleasure.
For that simplicity, in the line of the original concept has to be maintained.
I think this is possible, the two requirement (project and simplicity) are conciiable, RTM people should think on how to do it simple and well.
but I think neglecting any of the two requirement would be an error
1) neglecting simplicity and attractivity of RTM would end in RTM not staying RTM anymore and people could walk awy from it
2) neglecting the need for a project notion, would be neglecting a real and durable need in to do list and GTD and sooner or later people needing it would leave, reluctantly but still leave for applications dealing with the project level. That would be too a bad news for RTM people.
so it is up to RTM people to find the appropriate means to deal with a project level (or hierarchy) in RTM, but in everybody's interest we'd like them to find one.
I'm not sure the best way is by adding sub-tasks, it would indeed transform RTM in something more complicated.
why not use projects that could includes tasks and could be listed in lists (?).
Any way I think the idea for subtask, like the idea of gathering lists in tabs or any other way of list gathering stem from the same reason : "finding an appropriate way to deal with projects".
so RTM people we are with you, find the solution, we can help you choosing or selecting among alternatives
and may the milk be with you
Posted at 1:45am on July 2, 2008
- 1
The existing smart lists are much more elegant solution.
Posted at 3:32pm on July 2, 2008
this is a way of doing it but here are my arguments to explain why it does not meet the objective :
- you do not have project attributes (next action, etc.)
- you rely only on tags that you manually enter :
let us say a tag for the project name, a tag for next action etc.
the thing is that it is far too manual, the risk is that you omit one of your tags or your make a typo error and the system is not consistent.
and if it sufficed then why would RTM have lists at all ?, it could also be done with tags and smart list
and going further on that logic why not do everything with text files etc.
like Emily said one key advantage of RTM is that simplicity,
you have tasks and lists as elements on which you can develop smart lists.
I think there is a need for a (simple) project element, with some relevant attributes that could then take advantage too of smart lists for further people personnal elaboration.
but to me smart list are not appropriate to substitute for a project level, that in my view :
- has to be able to gather tasks
- has to be able to be listed in lists
(and has to have some relevant project attributes)
Posted at 7:32am on July 3, 2008
I would really like real sub-tasks :)
Posted at 12:44pm on July 3, 2008
i want subtasks
Posted at 2:16pm on July 3, 2008
sub tasks do not really make sense because what is a task with sub tasks ?
- a project
a project is any task that require more than 1 task to be completed
it perfectly makes sense that a project contains tasks and project
example :
I have the project "sell my house"
it could be in the list : "housing" in which you would find the other project : "find my next house"
back to project "sell my house", it could contains projects such as :
"assess worth of my house", "refresh my house for better looking and selling","find the best and least commissioned way to sell it"
in the project "assess worth of my house" you find the following tasks :
-"identify 3 housing assessing expert"
-"contact housing assessing expert 1 for an appointment"
-"contact housing assessing expert 2 for an appointment"
-"contact housing assessing expert 3 for an appointment"
-"determine the price of the house synthesizing the 3 experts results"
Now remarks :
1) imagine the mess if each project is a list mixed with original lists like "housing"
=> projects should not be implemented by lists if lists keep their current signification
=> you have to have an "atomic" level of to-do action, ie an elementary action that need not be further subdivided
in my opinion this is RTM tasks so subtasks are not necessary if
project level exist.
Many GTD people consider that any to-do action that require more than 1 elementary actions is a project.
Posted at 3:58pm on July 4, 2008
I agree that sub tasks would be nice. I am using lists now to contain big projects but sometimes I have a simple thing (a little project) that has some components (sub tasks).
Posted at 4:50pm on July 9, 2008
says:I would also like to have subtasks.
Posted at 1:23pm on July 22, 2008
+1 for collapsing subtasks
Posted at 12:43am on July 29, 2008
and another +1 for collapsing subtasks
Posted at 8:08am on July 30, 2008
+1
Posted at 2:12pm on July 30, 2008
+1 for sub-tasks/dependent tasks...
RTM is very flexible and some people have found some ingenious ways of using its current interface in many ways BUT all of the ingenious implementations I've seen on these forums for managing nested tasks/ sub-tasks/dependent tasks are NOT simple or elegant, but turn using RTM into something arcane, complicated and non-intuative which is not what it should be.
Anyone who is trying to make a list of tasks will find that some depend on others or one task is better written as sub-tasks (and I dont want to have 15 projects!) This is the one thing that makes rtm frustrating.
Sometimes adding functionality complicates things, sometimes it can simplify things...
Maybe there is a way and preserve rtm's simplicity, elegance, and flexibility?
Posted at 12:51am on July 31, 2008
says:I don't like hearing that adding features has to complicate things.
Good award winning developers (hint...hint...) find ingenious ways of implementing obviously high demand features without complicating things at the same time. Sub tasks does NOT have to complicate things if implemented correctly. Folks that don't want to use them don't have to but folks who do, can. toodledo (horrible interface btw...) has done this by turning off subtasks by default but letting the user who wants that functionality to turn it on in their individual preferences. Ingenious... no?
Implement sub tasks yesteday please.
:)
Posted at 2:14am on July 31, 2008
says:Whew, I just read this entire thread and have to agree that subtasks are a must. I considered upgrading to pro, but as I was digging through the FAQ and such I found that subtasks are not implemented and, at least as of January 2006, is not on RTM's development radar.
This is lamentable as I love the mobile and sync integration, but I'm going to continue shopping other solutions as the lack of subtasks is a deal breaker for me.
I perfectly understand the nested / multi tagging solutions, but they are a band aid and end up making it a lot more work than it should be. I'd be willing to bet that if subtasks were implemented, most if not all of these nested tag hacks would vanish into the ether... for South Park fans, picture Cartman's hand waving around after J-Lo jumps off the bridge in "Fat Butt and Pancake Head".
I like tacos y burritos
Posted at 2:45am on July 31, 2008
I just signed up for RTM. I am looking for something to manage personal tasks such as finance, kids, household, etc. Sub tasks are so logical. For example I need to get the kids registered for school but need to get a sports physical for one and eye tests for all of them before that. I also am planning on staining the deck but I need to pressure wash it, pick up the stain and supplies. These type of lists really lend themselves to sub tasks.
Posted at 2:51am on July 31, 2008
This seems ridiculous.... For as many users that have requested this and it not be implemented. It is an embarrassment....
Posted at 11:41pm on July 31, 2008
says:Please count me in on the list for the FEATURE REQUEST of SUBTASKS.
I like everything that RTM is offering, but the lack of SUBTASKS is pushing me towards other options.
SUBTASKS are much easier to link to the original task/project then creating a TAG. When you create the TAG you are doubling the effort and often times if you don't remember what TAG you assigned to the initial project you end up creating a new one.
It is much easier to scan your todo lists, locate the TOP level task/project and add a SUBTASK to this initial entry.
Please ADD this feature ASAP as it is something I would most definitely pay for!
Posted at 9:49pm on August 4, 2008
-1
I really don't want subtasks. I think it's easy to do this by defining a project with a certain tag (.project or whatever) and then making a smart list with the "subtasks" required. I think this will really take away from the lightweight, clean look of this application.
@phugel
Yes, same here. When I create a task, it's the ultimate goal. Then I keep track of progress and what else needs to be done in the notes section. It's great to have all information regarding a task in one place -- especially if I need to reference back after the task is completed. I have a running log of everything that took place to get that task finished.
Posted at 4:03pm on August 5, 2008
says:The other way to do it would be to add a note. When all things in the note are done, the task is completed. Use of tags gets me most places. I'd prefer not to overcomplcate the interface and would like an even simpler one.
Posted at 5:15pm on August 5, 2008
@ianm17
Right on.
Posted at 7:29pm on August 5, 2008
says:put me on the list for subtasks and ill upgrade to pro in a heartbeat....
sad that this has been requested almost 3 years ago and still has not been implemented. I don't know what the big deal is about implementing this feature. If your subscriber base wants it and there is a potential to bring in revenue for the feature I don't see a reason not to implement it.
Posted at 3:10pm on August 6, 2008
The issue: "The reason that we haven't done subtasks is that it would be extremely difficult to do without complicating the interface (and we've already packed a fair few features into this interface :) Not to say that we would never do it in the future -- but it would require some serious thought to ensure the simplicity of Remember The Milk was maintained."
I don't know what's going on in the RTM staff meetings, but I'm sure they are aware there are many who want subtasks. Isn't it ultimately their prerogative what they do with that information?
Lastly, I'm really confused as to why so many people push so hard for this subtasks feature. Maybe I can't picture what's being requested, but I've always thought the best thing about RTM is how flexible it is; because of this you can create subtasks so many different ways. Maybe the tag system is a little different from other task management tools (I'm not sure), but there are lots of websites and people who've posted in these forums with great ideas on how to keep tasks (including sub tasks) organized.
Posted at 3:45pm on August 6, 2008
Hi!
I would love collapsible, dependent sub-tasks (and sub-projects).
I am currently using the free RTM, but would pay to upgrade to PRO if this were a feature.
I would also feel that I had found nirvana, organization-wise.
As it is, I already feel I'm close to Shangri-La...
Thanks for the work you're doing!
Posted at 8:17pm on August 6, 2008
I would still love to see Subtasks
Here's a greasemonkey script that impliments them (but you have to be mindful of your tags).
http://userscripts.org/scripts/show/27614
As you can see from the screenshot at the bottom, it doesn't seem complicate the UI.
Posted at 10:03pm on August 14, 2008
I'll throw in a +1, though the notes interface allows users to list their subtasks there as well (not as ideal because you can't click "complete" but still a place to group subtasks under a main task). So, if notes usability was improved as noted in the other thread, the need for subtasks might dissipate.
Posted at 2:36pm on August 17, 2008
I really want subtasks too - I would probably even be willing to pay for pro if it had subtasks.
I don't see why this would make anything more complicated - just have some indented subtasks that could collapse under a main task. They don't even have to have tags if that makes it more complicated. I don't think subtasks would go against the basic philosophy of RTM or turn it into some kind of complicated "project management" tool.
It's much messier and more complicated to make a new tab for each task that has subtasks, or use tags to identify some tasks as subtasks of another task, or even to list subtasks in the notes.
I think that categories (i.e. tabs/lists), main tasks, and subtasks is the way most people organize - obviously by the comments lots of people want them. So why is RTM so opposed to subtasks?
Posted at 7:04pm on August 25, 2008
I'd pay for pro if it had subtasks. Perhaps you can offer them as a setting on each list, so that they don't have to be turned on and complicate the interface for users who won't enjoy them.
But for my schedule, anything that would manage my todos must have hierarchy options.
Posted at 3:12am on September 1, 2008
says:+1
Posted at 8:48pm on September 2, 2008
The Greasemonkey Script "RTM Projects" is the only reason I am still using RTM without Subtask support and shows just how clean and simple it could look.
Does anyone else feel like they're not trusted to know what they want?
Posted at 2:36pm on September 9, 2008
+1
I too definitely would appreciate having collapsible subtasks to organize which tasks need to be performed in order to complete other tasks. Sure, there are "manual" ways to emulate subtasks, but surely that just demonstrates the demand for the real thing?
Posted at 5:25pm on September 9, 2008
this has to be #1 most requested.
Developers, I know it's your product... but #users vs #devs on this issue surely has to make you wonder if this feature will increase your user-base if not enhance the product?
If every single RoR user requested one feature that went against MVC, surely the higher-ups wouldn't say "No, use tags"?
I stopped using RTM because of this issue, and am only back to see if it's been implemented yet...
Posted at 6:27pm on September 10, 2008
Hi everybody,
I agree with RTM designers. Subtasks are a mess to develop. As the number of RTM users is growing (800.000), a subtask feature would complicate the application and turn the interface sluggish.
Look at the BIG actors, like Microsoft Live Calendar new tasks. They don't even have contexts!
There are many ways to implement "subtasks" in your RTM:
If your task contains a lot of subtasks (more then three), don't hesitate to create a list, even with a prefix to link it to its main list (kids, tax, etc.).
If your task does not deserve such a treatment, use the notes, one per subtask. Select your main task, then press Y to create a note, one per subtask. When your subtask is done, you can insert an "ok" or "done" in it.
The Y shortcut is very powerfull: it displays notes and opens a blank field to enter your next subtask.
Use also the "hasNotes:true" smart list to display your "big" tasks and decide if they have to become lists.
Cheers from Paris,
David
Posted at 6:09pm on September 20, 2008
I need subtasks!!! The workarounds described above are clumsy at best.
Posted at 4:26pm on October 15, 2008
i agree - for a service that has put so much into development, and has API's, we've still only seen workarounds.
i don't think it would complicate the interface at all! in fact, it would simplify it for me. this might just be my issue (since no one else seems to have mentioned it), but subtasks are the way i work.
basically, i'll put a task like "plan romantic dinner for friday" on my list of things to do. then, since i have ADD and sometimes have trouble getting started, it really helps me to break the task down into smaller pieces at the time i start working on it. for example, sub-tasks would be:
--look at zagats for restaurant reviews (due: 2 weeks before)
--check ____'s calendar re: availability (due: 2 weeks before)
--make reservation on opentable.com (due: 10 days before)
--check what credit card has enough room on it for the meal (due: day before)
--what to wear? (due: day of)
>>>bring something to work to change into (due: day of)
>>>buy new dress? (start: 2 weeks before; due: day of)
well, you see where i'm going. basically i've got to outline everything in very small steps to keep my head on straight. i don't want to rely on making lists for those things that need to be outlined, since, when i create the task, i usually don't know if i'm going to need to outline it or not. plus, who wants to end up with a separate "list" for every single one of their to-do items? makes the site useless pretty quickly.
and it doesn't really help me to have subtasks in a note, because then each of the subtasks is just a snippet of text - they can't have separate due dates, or separate time estimates, or locations, etc.
what i'd really like to see is the left-hand side (the task-list area) of RTM look something like the task list on Todoist.com, which is not a complex interface at all. it's simply an "outline" or "indent" concept, simply a way of displaying the tasks. plus, it's not like RTM doesn't already have numerous fields that other task managers don't have, like duration,
so, long story short: c'mon, RTM. you've got so many people clamoring for this. what the hell, make it an optional feature, make it a "pro" feature, whatever you need to do. just get it implemented!
Posted at 6:32pm on October 16, 2008
"So might it be possible to hide away something in the settings to "turn on" a more advanced interface for those that decide they want it? Maybe once this and some other wishlist items have appeared it might be easier to see how to add some more advanced things in this way."
I fully second. Subtasks or collapsible task will make rtm a much better tool for me.
Posted at 9:49am on October 17, 2008
Subtasks would the only sustainable reason for staying with RTM.
+/- expand/collapse
[ ] task [x] subtask of
expand all/collapse all
Profile -> Features -> [x] Enable Subtasks
Not that I want to pay really but having subtasks would pretty much gaurantee my enrollment in pro.
There are those of us who are bent on organization but need to be able to break tasks down to more managable action items and help encourage clear progress markers. This does not constitue Project Management by the way, have a look at the difference between 'tasks' and MS Project. maybe bicycle vs. nuclear submarine?
Posted at 2:36pm on October 17, 2008
says:Somewhat like sequential or conditional tasks.
For example, if my main task is: "Clean the sink", I can't do that until I've also completed "Buy rubber gloves" and "Wash the dishes".
Posted at 12:02am on October 21, 2008
Please, give us subtasks! I don't understand why this is complicated and it would not complicate the interface. I have seen some of the competing task managers out there and they are terrible compared to RTM, especially the subtasks function. Not one has a clean, easy interface (one that also works in Gmail) like RTM. All I want is the ability to create a heading and individual tasks underneath.
Posted at 1:46am on October 21, 2008
Here's another vote for subtasks and a description of how the feature could be combined with other features:
1. As others pointed out, it allows you to better manage projects
2. Combined with a manual (drag and drop) sorting option, would be quite powerful
3. Combined with an "auto next to do" feature would be even more powerful:
For a given project (list), have the first item (that the user sorted manually), get highest priority or get tagged with "next". When that item is checked as "completed", the next item in sort order for the given project automatically becomes "next". No need to keep updating individual projects manually that way!
Thanks
Posted at 5:29pm on October 22, 2008
Subtasks are a must have. Please implement them. +1
Posted at 1:01pm on October 29, 2008
+1 I can't use RTM until subtasks are implemented. At the moment I use a tabbed text file. Some work arounds have been suggested using tags and lists but that seems clunky in the extreme.
I'm sure you can do it without messing up the interface. In the mean time, I'll look for another solution.
Thanks for listening.
Posted at 4:38pm on October 29, 2008
it's been a while since we heard from RTM on subtasks, can someone from the team give us an update as to if we can expect this feature in the near or distant future??
Posted at 12:38am on October 31, 2008
says:+1 for subtasks.
I think RMilk is great, so this isn't a slam. But I've notice a significant weakness when it comes to tracking projects as a whole, even in a basic way.
Subtasks are really the group of tasks required to complete a project. The RMilk way to group those tasks is through tagging. Tagging is helpful, but it's not enough to effectively organize and track higher level projects. For instance, there's no way to do something as simple as add a note or project plan to a project, or to mark a project as complete.
I'd recommend that more effort be put into a few simple ways to organize and track projects in addition to tagging.
Posted at 6:00pm on November 2, 2008
+1 for subtasks.
A number of people have made suggestions to make this less "obtrusive":
- Disabling the feature by default, allowing the user to enable it if they want.
- Provide the ability to collapse / expand a specific task or all tasks in the current view to show the subtasks.
- Indent the display of subtasks.
I'd like to see this happen, since the "Lists" to me are categories of tasks, with tags providing further subcategorization. With tabs as an interface to switch between tasks, I'm somewhat reluctant to use longer names, such as I would for projects.
So, I shall put my money where my mouth is, and upgrade to Pro, to show my support for this and other ongoing development.
Posted at 7:34pm on November 2, 2008
says:+1 for subtasks. I've been considering switching to a desktop application like Things or Omnifocus because of the lack of this feature.
Posted at 8:56pm on November 3, 2008
+1 for me too.... Could someone from RTM, maybe Emily, please comment on this feature? Is it on the horizon and if so, when is it expected? As you can see there is overwhelming support for at least partial implementation of subtasks. Thanks!
Posted at 8:58pm on November 3, 2008
Please give us sublists and subtasks! Begging!
Posted at 2:43pm on November 11, 2008
+1
I need this to integrate RTM into my life. Until then I'm still using a hacked together system. This is a must for me!
Posted at 8:42pm on November 11, 2008
+1
Well Subtasks are the feature that hold me back from useing this more. I need to buy My Life Organized to get this feature.. and that is not online...
Posted at 4:17pm on November 12, 2008
Could use subtasks too. Throw in another vote. Would love to upgrade if that was avail.
Posted at 4:02am on November 16, 2008
Okay, i finally signed up for RTM due to the excellent iphone app and upgraded to pro and i can't believe that this thread was started back in late 2005, almost 3 years ago and the RTM devs STILL haven't implemented subtasks. All i've read were a bunch of excuses from them on this subject about "complicating" the UI and blah blah blah. They had 3 years to figure out a graceful way to implement subtasks, and yet chose not to. Seriously, RTM devs, if you plan on NEVER implementing subtasks, please just come clean and say so. To drag out what seems to be a highly requested feature for 3 years is quite frankly shameful. I for one would also like subtasks functionality as well. And to those who don't want such functionality, then you simply don't have to use it if it's ever implemented. it shouldn't affect UI and workflows in the slightest for non users if implemented correctly.
Also, it seems like some mentioned that subtasks is contrary to GTD methodology and i have to admit i have never read the chief book on GTD by what ever that guy's name is but how come Omnifocus (which is consider a much more "stricter" implementation of GTD workflows) has subtasks and even subprojects? Toodledo has subtasks as well. Most if not all of RTM's chief competitors have found a way to implement subtasks functionality within their apps. For the RTM to lob one excuse after another for over 3 years as to why they haven't is not acceptable. I love the RTM site and iphone app, but this thread and RTM's lack of action on this issue has really really annoyed me.
I look forward to hearing what the RTM people REALLY plan on doing or NOT doing in regards to this issue. The bottom line is they need to address this in a more serious manner for all of us paying customers.
Posted at 10:17pm on November 16, 2008
Apigo, the creators of ToDo for ipod Touch/iphone are supposedly working on subtasks -- they say on their website. ToDo syncs with both Toodledo and RTM. So if they do it, I suppose we could at least have subtasks on iphone/ipod touch.
Toodledo has subtasks but it's only one level (a subtask cannot have another subtask.) So it's really not that useful to me. I prefer the web-interface of RTM, as well as the time-stamped notes, and like the ical integration as well - even if I can't use subtasks right now, I may bite the bullet and pay for the upgrade so I can use it with ToDo and / or the RTM iphone/ipod touch app.
Posted at 2:48am on November 17, 2008
yes, sub tasks would be great
how bout the ability to attach a routine to a specific task...especially a reoccuring one. for example: laundry - i need to seperate the coulors, make sure i have chance, fill up the downy balls i use with fabric softner, wash the white and bleach them..etc i would like to be able to have little subtask lists, as well as the ability to save routine sub task lists for reoccuring items.
Posted at 5:37am on November 24, 2008
hey, everyone
This would be a great feature, but until then, I would like to suggest a great workaround, using Firefox and Greasemonkey.
1-Get Firefox and Greasemonkey
2-Get the scripts mentioned here and learn to use them (at the discussions there are great ideas)
http://userscripts.org/scripts/show/25046 (the Tag Cloud Colorizer)
http://userscripts.org/scripts/show/25050 (Keep Cloud visible, needed for the next one)
http://userscripts.org/scripts/show/26057 (RTM enhanced)
http://www.rememberthemilk.com/forums/tips/2943/(Tag Cloud Colorizer discussion)
http://www.rememberthemilk.com/forums/tips/4475/ (RTM Enhanced, the discussion)
Using the improved tag cloud you can access your projects easily, as was already suggested. And, if you tag every action within a subproject with a special tag you can use one of RTM enhanced's better options: clicking on a tag button (under the normal task info) filters your search through it!
Example:
I want to buy a new house (project)
I need to find housing agency (subproject)
I should look in internet and ask my friends about agencies (actions, both tagged with @buyhouse and @findagency).
If you click on @buyhouse you see everything that has to do with it. Then you can click on the @findagency tag button to see actions that have both tags! In this way you can organize your actions.
Hope it was clear for everyone!
Victor
Posted at 4:48pm on November 26, 2008
says:yep, I'd totaly dig subtasks
Posted at 3:48pm on November 28, 2008
+1 This is the ONLY reason I will not be renewing my pro account Other than this everything was great
Posted at 8:29am on November 29, 2008
+1 I spent days implementing the workarounds others have tried, as well as some of my own. All solutions felt like a square peg in a round hole.
With that feature I'd be converting everything over to RTM and becoming an evangelist. Without it, it's unusable for me.
Posted at 3:31pm on December 9, 2008
hey guys, anyone notice that Google just released Tasks for gmail? It has an awesome Outliner built in! Works great. This is what I always wanted RTM to be able to do. It would be nice if they could work together.
Posted at 4:05am on December 11, 2008
By the way it's a "labs" feature. Here is a link to their blog post:
http://gmailblog.blogspot.com/2008/12/new-in-labs-tasks.html
Posted at 4:06am on December 11, 2008
Having read all the very thoughtful posts in this thread and thought about the pros and cons, I think nested sub-tasks would make an already wonderful tool indispensable.
Emily, has the development team had a change of heart on this one?
Posted at 3:36pm on December 14, 2008
says:+1
Loving RTM so far! Subtasks would help - for example I need to remember what date I have committed to someone for the parent task, but then I also need to delegate parts of that task to someone else. Having sub tasks would def make life easier!
Great job guys!
Posted at 11:25am on December 15, 2008
Even the new barebones Gmail Tasks tool includes a way to "indent" tasks to make subtasks by pressing TAB. You can't get more minimal or simplistic than that. Not only that, you can create subsubsubsubsubsubsubsubtasks if you so choose. Why can't RTM figure it out?
Posted at 7:47pm on December 21, 2008
says:i love the app, so much so that i decided pretty much straight away went pro. it's exactly what i need. apart from sub tasks! . It's definitely time to revisit having this option here. it's been a couple of years since this thread was started and the consensus here is that it would be extremely useful, and for those who feel it may "clutter" the interface a simple opt in or out button needs to be made to give those folks the option.
so..... where are we? is this actually on the development roadmap?
Posted at 12:41am on January 6, 2009
says:I like where this thread is going. Can the anyone from the RTM team confirm what features are on the horizon? Why all the secrecy? It's not like this is the Manhattan Project or something. I get frustrated when the blog talks about what "Bob the Monkey" is up to (ugh), but can't address really fundamental open issues like this one. Can we get an official response on this? If RTM has no plans on supporting this, please let us know so we can switch products to something that meets our needs.
Posted at 12:59pm on January 6, 2009
says:I totally Agree
Posted at 4:07pm on January 7, 2009
I would love this feature as well. That is basically the only benefit todoist has over RRM. They manage to keep the subtask feature pretty simple and slick. I am sure you could pull it off even better.
Even if this was a feature for pro only, I would upgrade in a heart beat!
Posted at 11:45pm on January 7, 2009
+1
Posted at 10:53am on January 11, 2009
says:I want this too and would even be willing to switch to another paid solution if I could find a good Thunderbird-Lightning/google tasks/iPhone application. Anybody know of one? I'm a pro user but would abandon rtm for this feature so whoever comes up with it first gets my money.
Posted at 7:52am on January 17, 2009
+1
Posted at 1:00am on January 18, 2009
subtasks would be very appreciated
Posted at 2:33am on January 19, 2009
says:I would also like to have sub tasks supported, though it's really important that the simplicity of RTM is kept. Perhaps it could be activated as a choice in the settings menu?
Posted at 2:23pm on January 19, 2009
I'm in the process of switching to Toodledo solely because it allows subtasks. I'd rather stay with RTM -- among other things, it's much more pleasant to look at, I prefer RTM's search functionality, and RTM is much less mouse-intensive -- alas, the lack of subtasks is a deal-breaker.
Posted at 5:04pm on January 21, 2009
+1
Posted at 6:30pm on January 21, 2009
It is sad to see that RTM is absolutely ignoring this feature request that persistently pops up, over and over again. Shouldn't you listen to your customers? Isn't that what makes an agile start-up like yours what makes it different from anonymous companies that "communicate" with their customers "professionally"?
It seems that you start to "communicating professionally", too. How disappointing!
Patrik
Posted at 9:49am on January 23, 2009
-1
Simplicity is the main feature of RTM! Do not change this!
;-)
Posted at 1:13pm on January 23, 2009
You know it could be implemented without changing the current interface. So those of you who do not want it do not have to know it is there.
You could even make the task assignments hotkeyed so there are no buttons (just very cool useful hidden functions)
Posted at 11:26pm on January 28, 2009
I really like RTM, but lists and tags are no substitute for subtasks. Todoist implements subtasks and does so quite nicely. I happen to prefer RTM, because it looks prettier and has better integration points.
I hope that the RTM team re-considers this. I would gladly pay for pro if it were included. Even if it was a feature that had to be enabled so that most users don't have the "clutter" of subtasks.
Posted at 2:26am on January 29, 2009
says:+1 for collapsing subtasks
Posted at 11:10am on January 30, 2009
I am not sure what to do now. I mean I have never been so aggravated with a dev team before. It just seems that they on purpose ignore these threads. In addition I have asked about the possibility of users contributing to the code base and have received not a single post in that thread after 4 days. I dunno. I really like the way that RTM looks and works with this and the task dependency issue. If not to just shut us all up I think they should add the feature.
Posted at 3:35am on February 2, 2009
That should have been with the exception of this and the task dependency issue....
Posted at 3:36am on February 2, 2009
I also would really like to see this feature. In fact, I looked for how to do this for quite a while initially thinking I just must be missing how to do it. BIggest complaint about RTM I have, which I like very much otherwise. Please add this feature, even if you can turn it on/off in the settings for those who don't want to 'complicate' RTM with it.
Posted at 4:05am on February 2, 2009
I think that it is silly to even post here. I mean the devs obviously are not going to respond and are prob not even reading this. Somebody with more time than me should create BRTM on a different site and basically mimic what has been done here but allow all different features. At least have a page talking about what is being developed, or something.... I would not be as fired up as I am if the devs would come on this thread and at least comment on whether their current stance has changed and why and why not.
Posted at 2:45pm on February 2, 2009
i am pro-subtask feature.
please add.
Posted at 3:31am on February 12, 2009
says:+1 Subtasks please
Posted at 12:59am on February 13, 2009
excellent idea!
Posted at 2:58pm on February 13, 2009
Emily, subtask it is necessary... sometimes RTM it seems difficult to get Items done because you have a lot of lists, a lot of tags...and no order. It is necessary that you consider to make it easy to use it. There is a tool to be considered Sub tagging!! could be a sustitute of subtasks. Consider it.
Also, I would like notification by lists or Smart lists. I don't want messages all the time from all my lists.
Posted at 6:09pm on February 13, 2009
says:I could live without sub-tasks if there would be possible to link task to another task.
Having said that subtasks would simplify keeping track of project level of stuff.
Posted at 10:02am on February 18, 2009
I just signed up and started dumping in tasks from all my paper to do lists. S-weet. Then, tried to figure out how to enter subtasks. Surely an interface this popular must offer such a feature?? Google'd it. Which lead me to here. Really, no "visual" subtasks? Well, I'll try the tagged approach, but just seems tedious just for the sake of a left-justified interface. An indented outline is one of the most elementary organizational tools in existance. How can this be considerd too complex-looking?
Doesn't seem our comments will make the developer's budge, but my $0.02 is that subtasks are a needed feature.
Posted at 11:22pm on February 18, 2009
I agree with most people around... subtasking would be but a GREAT addition to RTM!
"GTDers" (like - almost - me) will find this particularly attractive, since Allen's concept on 'projects' is very very broad (any outcome that requires more than one action is considered a project) and sure RTM could profit well from it - since a lot of GTDers are usually people who see the value of investing a little money in something that could potentially improve their lifes. (ha! who wants a better argument?)
Also, since people keep requesting it all the time, maybe they're taking this long because they're trying to come up with some ultra clever way to implement it whitch will amaze us all lol
Posted at 5:06am on February 24, 2009
Hey everyone,
Just a quick note to let you know that subtasks are definitely on the list of suggestions. If I get any information of possible implementation you'll be the first to know :)
Posted at 7:06am on February 24, 2009
Thank you Krissy. Subtasks would make RTM practically perfect in every way!
Posted at 12:34am on February 27, 2009
says:I was ready to say "bleep you, RTM" for not implementing subtasks, if not for Krissy's comment.
However, Krissy, it shouldn't be on the list of "suggestions". It's a MUST, period. Without subtasks, RTM's a little use to me. I wistfully say this after coughing up $25 for the pro account.
Subtasks AND "next action" feature.
Posted at 3:57pm on February 27, 2009
Yes! I will run now run around my room screaming in unexplainable joy! The people around me will look at me funny and think that I am insane. Thank you for this.
Krissy,
Is there a page that lists the other items on the list. To see what you guys are working on. The "next action" feature is almost automatic if you implement the subtasks.... There are so many possibility there.
Posted at 9:46pm on February 28, 2009
Krissy,
Thanks for letting us know that implementing sub-tasks is now officially considered a "suggestion," after the subject has been debated for 3+ years on this thread.
What are the next steps / next actions?
s.
Posted at 12:07am on March 2, 2009
Hi everyone,
I would love to give you more information on possible implementation - but at this point I can't. The team is aware of how strong the support is for this feature (and many, many others). As soon as I have info - I will make sure you all hear about it.
@justace Unfortunately we don't have a publicly available list of things the developers are working on. I will pass the suggestion on though.
Posted at 1:15am on March 2, 2009
+1
Posted at 12:33pm on March 2, 2009
Add my vote for subtasks. I love RTM, but I find the lack of subtasks to be quite a thorn in the side. I started looking at Todoist because of this. However, it lacks the search sophistication of RTM.
For a GTDer like me, subtasks are really needed.
Posted at 9:22pm on March 7, 2009
says:+1
I love UI of RTM. When I consdered Toodledo instead, I found how the UI is great. I eager to have subtask function on RTM.
Posted at 5:12am on March 12, 2009
says:I agree that a list to contain all of the associated tasks for a "project" (any outcome that requires more than one action to complete) would get the job done. I think what I would like is a very simple way to reorder the tasks, like drag and drop. I think I saw that requested somewhere, and it would give me what I'm looking for with just a little extra work on my part.
Posted at 1:54pm on March 12, 2009
says:I just signed on to Pro, began using, and was dumbfounded that I could not subtask. I simply assumed that a quality program would have this feature. Shame on me for not looking more closely before buying.
After skimming this forum it is obvious the developers are unresponsive to their users.
Posted at 11:00pm on March 14, 2009
says:+2
(me and a friend)
Posted at 6:51am on March 15, 2009
+1
Posted at 6:14am on March 16, 2009
+1
Like many others here, would make RTM very usefull.
Signup last week. Logged in this morning to enter my firsts task, and already needed subtasks.
Thanks.
Posted at 11:28am on March 19, 2009
says:-1
I could be very wrong and I'm not going to take the time to look it up, but doesn't Allen's GTD system talk against subtasks and instead of creating projects? That's what I do. Unless RTM were to come up with some incredibly elegant and simple solution, I say "no" to subtasks.
Posted at 1:45pm on March 19, 2009
says:I use RTM daily and the only thing I find missing right now is sub tasks. I really need this feature.
Posted at 5:17pm on March 20, 2009
says:@we.kanes: True, he does say that and doing it is easy, but every time you want to revise the list of task (add or remove something related to a project) its more helpful to see all task related to a particular project together, instead of searching your entire list for them everytime
Posted at 7:41pm on March 20, 2009
says:I'm a happy GTD'r and will say that the connection between projects and tasks is a bit of a "hole" in the system, that's why so many GTD'r's struggle with this issue. From what I've heard on GTD Connect and other places the two solutions are: 1) double entry (next steps are listed both on the project and task list); or 2) regular review of both the task AND project list.
The first option lessens the effectiveness of the task manager IMO because it simply becomes a place to check off items that are loosely connected versions of items on your project list. The second option is of course something you should do anyway, but it doesn't help you keep focus when you've completed one step in a multiple step project.
If, like me, you have many complex projects it would be helpful to have the task manager "lead" to the next step in one particular project without having to go back to my project list and then take the time to input another single task back into the task manager.
There's got to be some way to do this in the task manager without creating so many lists. Ideally, the top level task (or project) is listed by priority or alphabetically by default, and each sub task is listed chronologically (not in terms of the date) in the order they must be completed to finish the project. So sub tasks could simply be numbered 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, etc, with "1" being the next item that needs to be completed.
I would double my pro account fee if this "project load" feature was added!
Posted at 5:27am on March 21, 2009
says:+1
Posted at 1:39am on March 28, 2009
says:I'm sorry, but I cannot believe that this post, asking for subtasks, originated in 2005 and that RTM has yet to address it. It is 3 1/2 years since this request was made, and the subtask feature continues to be requested by users. Sigh.
Posted at 2:03am on March 30, 2009
@amswitzer: Well it seems that they have decided to actually implement this idea as per the message from krissy on March 1st.
Posted at 9:06pm on March 30, 2009
says:Ok, as much as I feel a clean implementation of projects (or sub-tasks) s a must (if you want an easy to use interface, just erase the difference between lists and tasks.) I think there is an easy way to give us some powerful tools fast.
In this thread there are suggestions of workarounds to subtasks by using tags. Unfortunately these workarounds require a lot of extra work to maintain as you need to tag every task. A simple feature that will make this much more tolerable is to add tags to LISTS. I.e. if a task "Task A" is in a List "List B" and "List B" is tagged as "Tag C" - then "Task A" automatically inherits "Tag C". This simple feature would add ability to change using RTM from "Lists" as categories and "Tasks" as tasks and projects, to "Lists" as projects, "Tags" as categories (and tags), and Tasks as simple tasks. You can then create "Smart Lists" around category tags to re-create original Category as List view.
The best thing about this is it should be simple to implement. Add tag field to List and a simple SQL (assiming its a relational DB in the backend of RTM) to join Task and List tags when viewing.
So, how about that?
Posted at 9:31pm on March 30, 2009
+1 and also linked tasks.
So you know the next task and once done the next one in line appears.
Posted at 2:22pm on March 31, 2009
It's simple - I need subtasks to make this a viable system, as do many others. I'm comparing RTM to Toodledo and this is a glaring omission. Can we expect this soon or should I move on?
Posted at 12:51pm on April 1, 2009
says:>
Bahahahahahahahahaha. Now that's a good one. "Expect this soon". Stop it. You're killing me.
Oh year, it's April 1. Me bad.
Posted at 4:49pm on April 1, 2009
says:Come on... We're actually paying customers of this service, and as much as I love RTM, you're telling me that all you can say is that it's now a "suggestion" after having been hammered on for over 3 years? That seems, at best, a little disingenuous. Are you guys actually working on this feature or not?
Posted at 9:38pm on April 2, 2009
Give me this feather please!
Posted at 12:59am on April 3, 2009
says:Are there any greasmonkey scripts or similar that could make this a possibility?
Posted at 5:26am on April 3, 2009
says:@dan.julian - READ MUCH?!
And now I've read the comments...sorry.
Posted at 8:08am on April 3, 2009
says:You can add me to the "sub-task" to-do list :-)
I've been on RTM for a day and it's one of the first things I found I needed. Some tasks require a bunch of steps which need to be tracked.
No GANTT charts - just sub-tasks ;-)
Posted at 7:51pm on April 3, 2009
says:+1
Posted at 9:33am on April 7, 2009
Went to Toodledo. Subtasks work like a charm. Virtually all the RTM competitors offer subtasks, too.
Posted at 11:52pm on April 7, 2009
says:Yes, I want it too....please.
Posted at 12:54am on April 8, 2009
I really like RTM but have been enviously looking at the subtask feature in other products... would definitely go pro for subtasks!
Posted at 8:21pm on April 12, 2009
gotta say as much as I love RTM this is starting to be a deal breaker for me. You folks have a product that is 10 % functionally away from being a complete knock out, but it just really seems stalled out.
Posted at 2:46pm on April 14, 2009
says:Agreed. I hate to, but I'm currently looking at other options. I just can't take the stress of seeing SO many individual tasks and I don't have the time to do a bunch of weird tagging to make it work.
Also wish I could change the order to whatever I want - the priority thing is way to cumbersome and limited.
Posted at 1:12pm on May 1, 2009
says:+1
Posted at 4:20am on May 3, 2009
Although having an account for some time now. I'm just beginning to fill my To-Do list and was wondering why it was so hard to create a subtask. Googling around trying to find how to create a subtask i do now find that this is not possible. This a real showstopper for me. I consider levelling task in tree-form really a primary fucntionality for a To-Do system.
Posted at 2:33pm on May 7, 2009
Pweeeeese RTM we needs the subtasks feature to be awesomes in our jobs/ life and impress our managers/ friends for wage increase/ awesomeness :)
Posted at 7:53pm on May 9, 2009
+1
Posted at 9:29pm on May 10, 2009
+1
I'd love to have this feature too.
It would make RTM my primary TODO software.
Posted at 5:10am on May 20, 2009
says:+1
I'd love to have this feature. I reviewed a lot of other list management software like Things, The Hit List etc., but decided to pay up (pro) for RTM 'cause of it's cool and easy interface and the ability to use it anywhere i.e. web, phone, desktop, gadgets etc.
The sub-task feature will definitely push RTM to the top of my list of task management tools.
Posted at 10:50pm on May 20, 2009
says:+1
Posted at 2:20am on May 21, 2009
says:How about an update please RTM. Is it possible we may get this feature within 6 months or not?
Posted at 6:28am on May 21, 2009
I've used RTM on and off for a year now and wondered why I didn't gel with it... until I used Todoist today. It's the nested subtasks that makes all the difference!
Apart from this RTM is superior, but without this feature... it doesn't work the way I think, make lists on paper or generally work in life. And that's why I can't be comfortable using it.
Come on RTM, give us subtasks!
Posted at 5:17pm on May 22, 2009
yes, please add subtask. I really need it to help me.
you can even add this to PRO and I will be happy to pay for it.
Posted at 7:22am on May 25, 2009
says:+1
I really need it
Posted at 4:48am on May 28, 2009
says:+1
I would pay for it.
Posted at 3:03pm on June 2, 2009
says:Adding my +1 here
Posted at 7:59pm on June 8, 2009
says:Please add subtasks or at least an update - thx!
Posted at 12:36am on June 9, 2009
is there any update? Please add subtasks
Posted at 9:09am on June 9, 2009
+1
Posted at 12:58pm on June 10, 2009
says:I agree - subtasks please...indented tasks is a good option to not complicate the interface, perhaps with a + / - to show/hide subtasks, with the most recent and last due date rolling up to the parent task
Posted at 4:42pm on June 11, 2009
says:please give us subtasks!
it´s the only thing missing apart from OutlookSync!
Posted at 8:46pm on June 11, 2009
says:+1
Posted at 6:16pm on June 15, 2009
says:please give us subtasks...begging
Posted at 9:15pm on June 16, 2009
I really want sub tasks for doing GTD. I like to create a project and then all the tasks needed to complete that project are subtasks. I create projects for everything so lists are too much.
Then let sub-tasks be "next actions" so that a smart list only shows the next action, not the entire list of sub-tasks.
Posted at 5:16am on June 17, 2009
+1
Posted at 3:08pm on June 17, 2009
+1
Posted at 11:05pm on June 17, 2009
+1
Posted at 8:18pm on June 22, 2009
+1
Also it would be great to have
1) completion progress status (%%);
2) parent task should calculate its progress status depending on sub-tasks progress
Posted at 7:08am on June 23, 2009
says:It's not the same thing as having it built in, but you may want to check out "RTM Projects", as well as an (fully backwards compatible) extension called "RTM Projects v3" *.
RTM Projects:
http://userscripts.org/scripts/show/27614
RTM Projects v3:
http://userscripts.org/scripts/show/48350
* Full disclosure: The "v3" extension was done by myself.
Posted at 1:13pm on June 29, 2009
Some say created the possibility to make subtasks will complicate RTM. But I think this isn't true. If you create a function in Settings where people can enable or disable the ability to create subtasks, everyone can choose what he/she wants!
If you don't need it, simply disable.
For those who need it, including me, it would be a hell of an advantage!
As many said before: it's the only missing part (besides OutlookSync perhaps, but I don't need that one :P )
Regards,
Mike
P.S. I'm Dutch, so my English might contain some errors.
Posted at 3:23pm on July 6, 2009
RTM is my favorite task manager available today. I say that without reservation. I tried several others (toodledo, todoist, etc) and always came back. What makes me come back is the powerful searching and keyboard shortcuts. What makes me seek out other solutions is the lack of subtasks. The best system I found for denoting subtasks is HNB, an old curses program that ceased development in 2003. The reason I enjoyed it so much was subtasks and watching the percentage done fill up for master tasks.
I would really like either having direct subtasks, in a tree as people mention, or blocking tasks. An example of the latter is that I can't order a shirt for my son until my wife tells me his size (I'm not that informed). The blocked task could disable (or leave enabled with a different color) the checkbox until the blocking task is completed. This could appear in the UI as an extra field in the details as a search so people could do more interesting things with it. In the overview list you could just add an arrow pointing to the right if there is a blocking task. Clicking on it would take you to it. The only thing left is a search keyword "blocks" which will recursively find all tasks that block the task searched for.
The "hacks" that people have given, even in the blog, are a tremendous amount of work that require me to think too hard to keep track of things. Frequently I'll put a task in my inbox like "buy shirt for the boy" and with the hacks I have to start creating lists/tags/etc and delete the original task.....rather than just move it to the correct list "Active" and start adding things that need to be done first.
The nice thing about implementing with blocking is that it is just one more field in the backend db and suddenly you can play with a new feature. See where it goes. I'm among the ton of people that would pay to be in the pool of beta testers.
Posted at 1:57pm on July 8, 2009
says:Subtasks are something that have been asked for from the beginning (I've been on for two years already).
To be honest, the only thing that stops me from coming up with a good way to do this is the lack of dependent items. Being able to tag something as contingent on another item would be helpful. Right now if I miss a step in a series of to dos, I wind up spending too much time playing with dates, and I wind up not keeping it up.
Posted at 5:02pm on July 8, 2009
+1
Posted at 8:32am on July 17, 2009
says:+1
Posted at 4:25pm on July 17, 2009
suscribe. +1
Posted at 11:36am on July 18, 2009
I come back every now and then hoping they implemented subtasks. Guess I'll check again next year!
Posted at 4:58pm on July 20, 2009
says:I too am dying for "projects." I was using Things for a while -- it's very nice, but it doesn't play well with Blackberry. That's one thing I really like about RTM.... But as a student who uses Things/RTM/etc for both life management and school management, I can't have a list for every paper and every project. It would drive me nuts. And I love tags for certain purposes, but tagging/smart lists are really no better a substitute for projects than making endless lists, if you have a lot of projects.
Check out Things and The Hit List to see how projects can be implemented in a very simple and elegant way, and then check out Omnifocus to see how they can be implemented in a complicated and infuriating way.
So yes, please, this is a make or break feature.
Posted at 12:46am on July 22, 2009
+1,
but a "Labs Features" would be nice for this.
Posted at 10:06pm on July 22, 2009
+1 for indented subtasks.
Posted at 2:22am on July 26, 2009
says:+1 need a simple way to track projects
Posted at 5:24pm on July 28, 2009
says:+1
just got the Pro. I hope this will be implemented as RTM is the best in every other category, imho.
Posted at 8:53pm on July 29, 2009
+1
Teadious creating tasks and numbering etc sucks
Posted at 1:58pm on July 30, 2009
says:+1
Posted at 5:03am on August 1, 2009
says:+1
Posted at 4:19pm on August 1, 2009
All right.... since "kindly asking" for it doesn't help: How much money do you want for this feature to be implemented?
I'm sure if you name your price, we'll figure a way out on how to get there!
Posted at 7:39pm on August 1, 2009
says:Subtasks are needed. Put the brain power in folks - projects are composed of lots of tasks. It's a natural way of looking at the world and RTM need to reflect that.
Posted at 7:17am on August 7, 2009
says:+1
Posted at 7:29am on August 7, 2009
says:+1
With 200+ responses this is a passionate issue.
Posted at 2:54pm on August 7, 2009
Even if this feature was only available by upgrading to PRO, you would definitely have me sold.
Fantastic application and worth every cent.
Posted at 3:03am on August 9, 2009
says:Count me in on this request! Subtasks are not just for project management. There are a number of things on my list that would be enhanced by subtasks.
Posted at 11:04am on August 10, 2009
+1
Posted at 1:37pm on August 10, 2009
+1 please
Posted at 3:36pm on August 11, 2009
So... I think this could definitely be advantageous.
Another way I've envisioned this could be done (though I think it'd be way more complicated) is being able to "link" a task to another task. That sounds confusing, but here's where I'm coming from.
If I've got a task that's tagged '-waiting,' I'd love to be able to click something and see the task that it's linked to, or, essentially, dependent on. So, theoretically, when I click on this '-waiting' task, on the right hand side would be a link to the '-na' (next action) task that has to happen before this one becomes do-able.
Or, you could just do subtasks. :)
Posted at 4:08pm on August 11, 2009
says:+1
Posted at 4:43pm on August 11, 2009
says:+1
This would help me a lot.
Posted at 2:08am on August 12, 2009
says:+1
Big tasks are made up of small tasks
Posted at 6:29am on August 12, 2009
+1
Very important for me! I'm really searching for an applikation which handles subtasks. This will make my decision for renewing the pro account.
Posted at 8:43am on August 14, 2009
I'm hoping to implement sub tasks in my rtm desktop app Rtm Notifier http://rtm-notifier.com within the next couple of weeks
The current version
- has a notification for each due task
- enables you to postpone for 15 mins, postpone for 1 day, complete or delete a task from the tasks notification
- enables you to decide which due tasks you are notified about by switching on / off lists or by tagging a task
- enables you to add tasks
It does have a few more functions but I wont go into every feature here, for more details see http://rtm-notifier.com
Posted at 5:01pm on August 17, 2009
says:+1
Pocos intervienen en Español, pero creo que es el momento de tener esa función.
Posted at 10:15pm on August 17, 2009
says:+1 for subtasks!
Posted at 5:22am on August 18, 2009
+1
Sub tasks would definitely help organize my tasks. I happens regularly that I have one activity (task) which actually consist of smaller activities. I could create labels to group the activities together, but that is just not convenient, because then it is not clear what the 'main' task is.
Many thanks in advance.
Posted at 6:49am on August 18, 2009
says:+1
Tasks should be able to have a parent and children. I often create a general task and would then like to break it down into subtasks. Some subtasks might be broken into yet smaller tasks, etc. When a parent task is complete, children should also be completed. When a parent has a due date, children should have that or an earlier due date.
This would increase the value of RTM immensely.
Posted at 9:08am on August 26, 2009
+1 for me too, although what I really want is "dependent tasks" rather than sub-tasks. If something is made of many tasks, it's not a parent task, but a project. What I would like to see is a way to make some tasks dependent on the completion of others.
Posted at 11:18am on August 26, 2009
says:+1
I am constantly needing this feature
Posted at 7:24pm on August 28, 2009
says:+1
Posted at 7:37pm on August 31, 2009
says:+1
RTM would be the PERFECT task management app with this feature...
Posted at 11:33am on September 7, 2009
says:+1
Subtasks please!
Posted at 8:44pm on September 7, 2009
Yep, subtasks would be useful.
Posted at 10:51am on September 8, 2009
says:+1
Posted at 12:34pm on September 8, 2009
says:Both subtasks and dependencies are *way too complex* for a personal GTD system.
If you want subtasks, dependencies, gantt charts etc. you need some actual PM software ... however, don't try to make RTM messy with all this nonsense - go use something else!
Posted at 9:46pm on September 8, 2009
+1
But I agree. It would have to be implemented just right so as to avoid RTM becoming messy.
Thanks for the active development!
Posted at 6:12am on September 9, 2009
I vote a big, big yes on subtasks (this might be begging, actually) and it might be a deal breaker for me to make RTM a usable app. With much thanks for the app as it's been developed so far, here are some thoughts:
Separate lists and tags (the workaround kindly suggested by RTM staff) mean I'll either
a) have a bunch of extra lists that I have to think to look at (rather than one true list) or
b) a ton of tagged subtasks that I'd consider clutter when I'm looking for what needs doing and don't want to work on that main task.
The goal here is to streamline the interface, which is admirable, but it also means our view of tasks is anything but streamlined. I'm guessing many users like me spend a lot more time viewing their list to select what needs doing than adding to it or editing it, so for me the importance of keeping things streamlined and clean applies as much to the view and usability of existing tasks than just adding things to the list.
One of the biggest impediments to getting things done, as noted in Barbara Sher's book Wishcraft, is hitting a vague, "Do this" task that has no tangible step to be done today. For example, "Start a new business" isn't something tangible to be done, while "Brainstorm businesses needed in my area" is something that could be done right now. Without subtasks, RTM seems to facilitate the big, vague, "Do this" kind of task and any of the more relevant sub-steps, assuming there are more than two or so, would clutter the view. This leaves it great for small errands (and there are so many apps out there that do this) but not as useful for organizing one's life. I agree this doesn't need to creep up in scope to be a project management app, but I have a hunch other people's daily lives also have a few more complexities.
With subtasks RTM would also seem to be so much more useful for people at work who aren't project managers but are just keeping tabs on things they have been asked to do. Sometimes these group up and a project gets put on hold, etc. This might be a large part of the user base and I'd much rather have one app like this than two.
I realize subtasks would involve a bit of thinking and coding, and it probably *should* be an optional feature. I'm okay if it's not enabled with SmartAdd for a while, etc. It doesn't necessarily have to approach a PM app. You could skip dependencies, skip any complicated view of task completion status for the parent (other than not started, partial, and done), and skip resources for tasks, etc.
RTM seems to be a great application and the work your team has done on it is so appreciated. If you've written off subtasks, here's another voice asking you to please reconsider.
Thank you!
Posted at 5:39pm on September 10, 2009
+1 for collapsible subtasks
Posted at 5:57pm on September 17, 2009
says:PLEASE add collapsible sub-tasks and sub-projects in a way that will "wow" all of us who have been patiently waiting for it and not interfere with those who would never use it.
(((PLEASE)))
Posted at 4:53am on September 19, 2009
Yes please add subtasks - a drop down menu might be possible to allow a drop down menu from a task that shows sub tasks - it would be amazing
Posted at 7:04pm on September 21, 2009
+1
Posted at 8:06am on September 23, 2009
says:+1
Collapsing or not, sub tasks please!
Or, at least allow to group tasks together under a name.
Posted at 1:50am on September 24, 2009
Yeah, that would be awesome
Posted at 4:08pm on September 24, 2009
says:+1
Its a very important things.
And about complexity, you could make its simple and add an option to use or not use the subtask system.
Posted at 7:52pm on September 24, 2009
I often find myself looking at my list of tasks and being overwhelmed by the number of tasks rather than the volume of work those tasks represent. Having a single expandable task with a simple "+" just to the inside of the check box ([ ] + Reading for Classes) with tasks nested rather than the extra tasks (Philosophy Reading, Math Reading, English Reading, Jazz PDF in email) in the same list under the rest of what I have to do today wouldn't complicate, but in fact, simplify my UI view of today's tasks.
Subtasks simply make multi-part tasks more manageable and doesn't necessarily constitute project management per se.
Even if subtasks were something supported only in pro, I would easily upgrade.
Posted at 7:58pm on September 28, 2009
+1 -- I would go pro for subtasks.
Posted at 8:07pm on September 28, 2009
says:+1
Posted at 3:37am on September 30, 2009
+1
Posted at 9:22am on September 30, 2009
Please, subtasks. I can sort of do this with new lists, etc, but the interface to create a list is cumbersome, especially trying to do one for every little multistep process.
Posted at 4:11pm on September 30, 2009
+1
Posted at 2:52pm on October 1, 2009
I think that it is funny that people are still asking for this feature.... you know they are not going to do it!
Posted at 3:19am on October 3, 2009
says:+1
Posted at 9:31pm on October 5, 2009
says:fwiw, +1. Like the idea of making a tag have a completion date.
Posted at 9:59pm on October 12, 2009
says:+1
Posted at 5:58am on October 13, 2009
says:I'd love sub-tasks as well. Collapsable, nested, but keep it simple--only one sub-level. Would be very helpful, even for everyday errands!
Posted at 3:42pm on October 17, 2009
+1
Posted at 7:44am on October 18, 2009
says:+1
Would definitely use this feature.
Posted at 10:06pm on October 22, 2009
+100
Posted at 4:30am on October 23, 2009
+infinity
Please, subtasks. I need them for keeping my job applications straight - before I apply for job X I need to customize the resume, make sure all my recommenders have written their letters, send in the application, etc.
Tags/lists is a lame workaround. I don't think it would be difficult to make the feature ignorable for those who don't want it.
Posted at 6:31pm on October 28, 2009
says:+1
Posted at 4:26pm on November 8, 2009
says:+1
Posted at 7:11am on November 9, 2009
says:+1
Posted at 7:43am on November 9, 2009
+1
Posted at 9:27am on November 9, 2009
says:If RTM simply added a "sort by list name" sorting option, then you could use lists for project names and achieve grouping by project. Even if it weren't collapsible, this would make a lot of people happy.
Posted at 3:47pm on November 9, 2009
+1
Posted at 5:49am on November 10, 2009
says:Just to let you know, I have come back to RTM Pro because it beats all the other Task Apps out there. My original decision to leave my Pro Account was based on the Subtask feature not being forthcoming and an inability to see the wood through the trees. Since then I have done a lot of research into Tagging & Flat Hierachies, a lot of thinking and although it pains me to make such a massive turn around.... I can live without Subtasks, I don't need them and I'm going full steam ahead with my GTD way of project management which I will describe in a Forum post shortly. So Emily you can count this as a "- (minus) 1" for each of my previous annoying posts.
Posted at 9:58pm on November 10, 2009
says:RTM has a lot of advantages over other task apps. Using main project-lists, tags and the smartlists, you can create your for next-actions list, who to call, view the delegated tasks etc (GTD).
Especially the tagging (tags and location) is a very powerful feature and that why i still use RTM.
But there are sub-projects within the main projects-lists and combining tasks/subtasks would be very useful. Google Tasks uses indents and that would be enough for me. I don't need the indentation in the smartlists, because it could be a task on my next-action list. The indentation is useful when revieuwing a project list.
It is possible to create a list for each subprojects and archive it, but the list would become enormous
And "strike-throught" to mark a task as done, but to keep it in sight with the other tasks/subtasks.
Posted at 8:44am on November 12, 2009
says:sebastian, I am reminded of Fermat's conjecture in which he famously wrote:
"I have discovered a truly marvellous proof of this, which this margin is too narrow to contain."
Please, details! Before it's too late! :-)
Posted at 5:11pm on November 12, 2009
says:+1
Posted at 12:21am on November 14, 2009
says:+1 sub tasks!!!
Posted at 8:45pm on November 17, 2009
says:I think even if subtasks showed up as notes as a start, I'd be happy.
Posted at 8:46pm on November 17, 2009
says:still waiting for subtasks.
Posted at 11:05pm on November 20, 2009
says:+1
Posted at 8:32am on November 21, 2009
+1
I'm doing subtasks manually right now. By writing the parent task before the subtask and then searching. However this is becoming a real chore.
Having a user-friendly way to do subtasks would be very nice.
Posted at 12:01pm on November 21, 2009
