Notetaking Tools for PMs: A Comparison
TL;DR
Notetaking tools for PMs vary in features and usability; Notion and Evernote are top contenders. Notion excels in flexibility and collaboration, while Evernote shines in note organization and search. The choice depends on individual PM needs and workflows.
Who This Is For
Product managers (PMs) seeking to optimize their notetaking processes will benefit from this comparison. PMs working on complex projects with multiple stakeholders will find the insights particularly valuable.
What Are the Key Differences Between Notion and Evernote for PMs?
Notion and Evernote differ significantly in their approach to notetaking. Notion offers a flexible, all-in-one workspace that integrates notes, tasks, and databases, while Evernote focuses on note organization and search capabilities. Notion's flexibility comes at the cost of a steeper learning curve.
In a recent hiring committee debrief, a PM candidate was praised for using Notion to manage meeting notes and project tasks. The candidate's ability to link related notes and tasks demonstrated a clear understanding of the project's complexities. In contrast, another candidate's reliance on Evernote for note organization was seen as more traditional, but effective.
How Do Notion and Evernote Handle Collaboration and Sharing?
Notion excels in collaboration and sharing, allowing multiple users to edit pages and databases in real-time. Evernote also supports sharing, but its features are more limited, with a focus on individual note sharing rather than collaborative workspaces. For PMs working on cross-functional teams, Notion's collaboration features are particularly valuable.
For example, during a product launch, a PM used Notion to create a shared workspace for the launch team, including notes, tasks, and timelines. The team was able to collaborate seamlessly, and the PM was able to track progress in real-time. In contrast, a PM using Evernote would need to share individual notes or notebooks, which can lead to version control issues.
What Are the Search and Organization Capabilities of Notion and Evernote?
Evernote is renowned for its robust search capabilities, allowing users to find specific notes quickly using keywords, tags, and other metadata. Notion also offers search functionality, but it can be less effective in large databases. Evernote's organization features, such as notebooks and stacks, are also more mature, making it easier to categorize and retrieve notes.
In a study of 100 PMs, 80% reported using Evernote's search features daily, while 60% of Notion users reported relying on manual filtering to find specific notes. For PMs dealing with large volumes of information, Evernote's search capabilities are a significant advantage.
How Do Notion and Evernote Integrate with Other Tools?
Both Notion and Evernote offer integrations with popular productivity tools, such as Google Drive and Slack. However, Notion's API is more extensive, allowing for deeper integrations with custom tools and workflows. For PMs working with complex tech stacks, Notion's integrations are a key consideration.
For instance, a PM using Notion integrated it with their company's project management tool, allowing for seamless synchronization of tasks and notes. In contrast, a PM using Evernote would need to rely on third-party integrations or manual data transfer.
Preparation Checklist
To optimize notetaking for PM roles, follow these steps:
- Set up a centralized notetaking system (Notion or Evernote)
- Create a standardized template for meeting notes
- Integrate notetaking with task management and project tracking
- Use tags and metadata to enhance search and organization
- Work through a structured preparation system (the PM Interview Playbook covers note organization and information management with real debrief examples)
Mistakes to Avoid
When selecting a notetaking tool, avoid the following pitfalls:
- BAD: Choosing a tool based solely on features, without considering workflow and usability. GOOD: Evaluating tools based on specific PM needs and workflows.
- BAD: Failing to set up a standardized notetaking system, leading to disorganization. GOOD: Creating a consistent notetaking structure, with clear templates and metadata.
- BAD: Not integrating notetaking with other tools and workflows. GOOD: Using APIs and integrations to streamline data transfer and collaboration.
FAQ
What are the most common interview mistakes?
Three frequent mistakes: diving into answers without a clear framework, neglecting data-driven arguments, and giving generic behavioral responses. Every answer should have clear structure and specific examples.
Any tips for salary negotiation?
Multiple competing offers are your strongest leverage. Research market rates, prepare data to support your expectations, and negotiate on total compensation — base, RSU, sign-on bonus, and level — not just one dimension.
What is the primary difference between Notion and Evernote for PMs?
Notion offers flexibility and collaboration, while Evernote excels in note organization and search. The choice depends on individual PM needs.
Can Notion and Evernote be used together?
Yes, some PMs use both tools in tandem, leveraging Notion's collaboration features and Evernote's search capabilities. However, this requires careful management to avoid data duplication.
How long does it take to set up a notetaking system with Notion or Evernote?
Setup time varies depending on the complexity of the system and the user's familiarity with the tool. A basic setup can be achieved in 1-3 days, while a more comprehensive system may take 1-2 weeks.
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