Computer Stuff

1Password (Mac, iOS, Windows, Android, Linux, & Chrome OS)
If you don’t have a program to keep track of your passwords, you need this. If you use the same password more than once online, STOP right now! Get this software, let it create super secure passwords for you, and change all those duplicates! There are browser plug-ins that makes filling in your passwords a breeze. Works seamlessly on almost every conceivable platform. There’s no excuse not to use it.

FileMaker (Mac & PC)
*The* database software. It can do incredible things. Completed databases can be used in iOS with the FileMaker Go app. For me, this is, without question, the best piece of software ever written in sheer terms of its power and capabilities.

Hazel (Mac)
If you’ve ever used Folder Actions on the Mac, this is kinda like that, but on steroids. Hazel does a lot for me. Daily.

Keyboard Maestro (Mac)
I love Keyboard Maestro. It’s automation capabilities are stunning. What other program can (easily) make your computer do something when a USB device is plugged-in or unplugged?

TextExpander (Mac)
I’m considering resubscribing to TextExpander. Don’t get me wrong—I love it. But in the constant battle to simplify life and lower expenses, I have, admittedly tried to move its workload over to Keyboard Maestro. KM works, of course, but TextExpander is built to one thing and to do it very well. If you deal with lots of repetitive text, this is worth using—it really does save a lot of time.

Music

Lilypond (Linux, Mac, PC)
This is the best music notation available, but it does not have a GUI. I recommend using Frescobaldi as a front-end for it. I use this for most of my engraving, and the output is stunning.

Dorico (Mac, PC)
This is the new kid on the block. It isn’t cheap, but it is mighty powerful, and with the expected GUI. I use Dorico primarily for music involving instrumental ensembles, but that just scratches the surface of its power.