Between to-do lists and status meetings, building genuine relationships with teammates can feel like an added layer of work. This month, we’re leaning into docs that help us move forward and connect with the people behind the progress. Here are some of our favorites that keep the human element of our digital relationships front-and-center.
The Docket is our version of the staff picks shelf at your local bookstore. Every month, we recommend published docs that we’ve personally read, loved, and copied. See past installments
by Lane Shackleton, Head of Product & Design at Coda
From Alex, Data: One of my favorite in-office activities used to be the mid-morning coffee stroll, learning about colleagues and the problems they’re chewing on. But I haven’t found a way to replicate this via Zoom, and working relationships feel much more transactional. Lane’s doc offers a framework for breaking through the digital divide and a template with tools to sustain those connections for both personal and professional success.
From Elva, Product design: In my role, I’ve found it helpful to remember that even if you use certain products, you can’t possibly be every type of user. That’s when persona development comes into play, as they give everyone on your team—PMs, designers, engineers, marketing, etc.—a shared understanding and constant reminder of your actual user base. This template from the Product School is a great starting point for building personas with real data and an emphasis on empathy.
From Bekah, Customers: Effective teamwork requires the shared trust, vision, and integrity that stems from strong relationships. Easier said than done. Sprint Valley wants to help build better teams, and equip them with the tools to strengthen their processes from within. By outlining three interactive sessions, this doc does the heavy lifting so you can focus on connections instead of doc building.
quiz from Al if you love binging Korean dramas, prefer to procrastinate via Buzzfeed quizzes, or want to live vicariously through your favorite on-screen couple while crash landing on your couch.
from Justin if you’re hosting a feast, planning your holiday-season grocery shopping, or want to show your family that you’re more put-together than your siblings.