How to use apps to compile, maintain and manage the things you’re passionate about

You would think that managing collections, no matter what they are, would be a straightforward part of any tech product or software. It feels as though it fits within the natural database structure of many apps and operating systems, but the choices are surprisingly varied and at times overly complex and hard to use for the majority. It can make finding the best way to catalog your collections a time consuming process, but we can help with that as we detail a variety of methodsthat will suit collections of different types. The choice will be yours as to if you want an all-in-one solution that can manage many different aspects of your life or tools that are aimed at particular objects or areas of collection, but there is definitely enough choice for anyone to find a solution. If you are working with collections where timeliness will be a factor, you will want to look at solutions that can work on Macs, iPads, iPhones and even the Apple Watch. For some collections, flexibility, and also security, will be a deciding factor.

Multiple choice

Searching for ‘collection’ in the iOS or Mac App Stores will bring back a huge list of apps, many of which are games, so you will need to tweak your search. Try using ‘manage your collections’ and the results will be much more specific to your requirements. The next step is the hardest bit, however, because the choice is almost endless.

Capture your collection

You can easily insert images into your collection that will define each object in great detail, but the best method is to snap your own photos and to use them so that you are listing the exact item in your collection. The condition of each piece can play an important part when creating a collection so try to avoid stock images.

1 The best detail

Whatever the object is that you collect, you should make an effort to capture it in the best possible detail. Your iPhone should be able to handle this with ease.

2 The full set

Some items are more valuable or meaningful if they have the packaging and peripherals. It is worth detailing the extra parts if you have them to complete the collection.

3 The exact number

You should include the serial number or at the very least the model number of an item. This can differentiate it, if it is a product that is upgraded from time to time.