GumNotes - Sticky Notes for Websites & Documents

The Challenge of Note-Taking and a New Solution

Traditionally, maintaining a consistent note-taking practice has proven difficult for me. Attempts to integrate new notes management systems into my workflow typically result in abandonment within a matter of weeks.

However, an article by Mark regarding Evernote’s integration capabilities with Android devices sparked my interest, prompting a brief period of experimentation.

Our team has previously explored numerous note-taking applications, encompassing Firefox plugins and a diverse range of other tools.

Abandoning Online Note-Taking

Following evaluations of approximately five to six different applications, I ultimately discontinued the practice of online note-taking.

Perhaps this method simply didn't align with my personal preferences, and I struggled with consistently revisiting and reviewing my stored notes.

Introducing GumNotes

Therefore, I was particularly encouraged by my discovery of GumNotes.

GumNotes represents a novel desktop application that transcends conventional note-taking by proactively reminding users of their notes at opportune moments.

The application’s name aptly conveys its functionality. It functions similarly to writing a note, adhering it with a piece of gum, and then attaching it to the relevant document, webpage, or application – wherever a quick reminder is needed.

Adding Notes to Digital Files

The underlying principle is straightforward. Regardless of the software you utilize – be it email clients, Microsoft Word, Excel, or a multitude of other applications on your computer – a note window can be quickly accessed.

Within this window, you can record thoughts or set reminders for future action, and then preserve the note. This note becomes linked directly to the file or email you were currently editing.

This functionality extends to scenarios like composing a Word document and conceiving an idea for subsequent investigation. Rather than risk forgetting the thought, utilize GumNotes to capture it before it’s lost.

A key advantage of this application is the elimination of the need to recall the note’s storage location. Furthermore, you won’t need to actively remember to revisit your notes.

Upon reopening the original document, email, spreadsheet, or other file, the GumNotes application – operating from your system tray – will present a pop-up containing your associated note, serving as a helpful prompt.

Implementing GumNotes requires minimal setup or effort. Once running in the taskbar, simply right-click the GumNotes icon to create a new note or associate it with your current work.

Beyond Email and Documents: Attaching Notes to Files

The ability to append notes to Microsoft Office documents or spreadsheets is a useful feature. However, its true versatility remains to be seen. To investigate further, I tested the software with a less conventional file type.

I opened an audio file – a guitar song currently in progress – using Audacity. My intention was to determine if I could save reminders regarding future edits directly to the file itself.

GumNotes: Recognizing and Saving Notes

The GumNotes application successfully identified the open file, as evidenced by the filename ("workingclasshero") appearing within the note. This allowed me to compose and save a message.

Upon exiting and reopening Audacity, I confirmed that the note was not associated with the application, but rather with the specific audio file. Opening the file then displayed the saved note.

Managing Saved Annotations

Selecting "Manage Annotations" from the right-click menu reveals a comprehensive list of all notes saved within the system.

Synchronization with Simplenote

A key concern is whether these notes are limited to the computer where GumNotes is installed. Fortunately, the application’s Options settings allow for Simplenote account integration.

By entering your Simplenote credentials, you can synchronize your desktop notes with the online Simplenote service, ensuring accessibility across multiple devices.

Enhanced Functionality within GumNotes

GumNotes provides capabilities that go beyond basic document annotation. By right-clicking the pushpin located at the note's base, users can establish a Timer for the note. This functions as a convenient reminder notification.

Furthermore, a noteworthy feature allows users to define keywords for new, unattached notes. This is achieved by clicking the link at the note’s bottom and inputting relevant terms into the subsequent window.

These keywords act as a filtering mechanism. When a document, webpage, or email containing these keywords is accessed, the associated note will automatically appear. This provides a proactive method for recalling crucial information requiring attention or a specific response.

Essentially, GumNotes transcends the limitations of a simple annotation application. It empowers users to construct a personalized reminder system. This ensures that important details are never overlooked, even during periods of high activity.

We encourage you to test GumNotes and share your experiences. Does it prove more effective than other systems you have previously utilized? Please contribute your feedback and opinions in the comments section below.