Evernote
Just like the Windows version, Evernote is an incredibly useful tool. The Mac client is easy to use and has a nicer interface than the Windows client. If you haven’t added this to your organisational repertoire, then you should – especially if you need to keep track of receipts.
Cost: Free, paid premium services
Chrome
The Chrome browser is one of the easiest to use across multiple devices. Apart from using the extensions and apps available to any version, just use the browser in conjunction with another device – like a smartphone – and you’ll see how powerful it can be.
Cost: Free
GeekTool
This one’s a little more complex and not for those who are afraid of a little coding. GeekTool allows you to create applets that sit on your desktop. You can turn these into whatever you want them to be – text, pictures or anything else. The most popular uses are for creating a text-based calendar or clock on your desktop.
Cost: Free
PostBox
Until recently, the best email client on the Mac was Sparrow, but its recent acquisition by Google has meant it won’t be updated again. PostBox is the next big thing, with a client full of features and the ability to search through your inbox as well.
Cost: $US9.99
VLC
If you have a video file you’re not sure will play in your computer’s default program, then VLC is the way to go. The program will decode any type of video you throw at it – and it works on Windows, too.
Cost: Free
Billings
Keeping track of timesheets, especially if you’re a sole operator, can be a tricky issue. Billings breaks that down into a simple process and helps you keep track of everything. It’s not the most complex program in the world, but it does the job better than any other program out there.
Cost: $US47.99
Growl
Growl is a type of notification software that lets you know when something has happened. You can set up Growl to sync up with your calendar, or various tasks that are happening on Mac OS X. It takes a bit to set up, but once you get going, it’s well worth the effort.
Cost: Free
Quicksilver
Quicksilver is a launching app for Mac OS X, which allows you to access applications, files, and manage your content more effectively. It sounds simple, and it is, but it just makes everyday work on your desktop more efficient. You can copy files while in Safari and create triggers to create new shortcuts or even mouse gestures.
Cost: Free
TweetBot
TweetBot might be one of the newer additions to the Twitter ecosystem on the Mac, but it’s definitely one of the best. It’s easy to use, allows columns just like TweetDeck, but has more power features like the ability to choose tweet options through right-clicking, or use the trackpad on tweets to reveal more information. You can customise your read-it-later service, your link shortening service, and even your preferred way to sync your timeline.
It costs $US20, but power users would say it’s worth it.
Cost: $US20
Day One
Although similar to Evernote, Day1 is more about writing down your thoughts everyday to keep track of them in a diary-style format. With a neat and simple interface, it’s easy to just jot down a few thoughts at the end of the day. Perfect for storing business ideas and notes you want to come back to at some point.
Cost: $US9.99
Patrick Stafford is a freelance journalist and a former deputy editor of SmartCompany.
