Ben Bartosik

Tools

I've deliberately tried to embrace a simple approach to digital tools.

Hannah Arendt described the difference between a tool and a machine as a tool is made to work with the human frame and movement, whereas a machine conforms the human to it. I try to choose tools that work well for my process and that assist (but not replace) my thinking.

I also prefer single purpose tools that do one thing exceptionally well rather than tools that try to do everything. I've been using most of these now for a number of years.

  • Bear — for writing and connecting my thinking.

  • Things — for keeping track of priorities and commitments.

  • Signal — for secure communication with friends and family.

  • A dedicated password manager — I genuinely don't understand how anyone gets by without one.

  • Roon — for listening to digital music at home.

  • Plexamp — for listening to digital music on the go.

There are other things I use, but these are the main ones that I use all day, everyday.