To Subtask or not to Subtask

I also agree with Todd’s point number 1 about subtasks. I strongly encourage others not to use subtasks and to stick with sections and tasks only.

This is because I have seen their usage cause more problems and confusion then benefit. I have seen information in subtasks get buried or lost.

I would point to the following as the main reasons.

  • Can’t see if or what subtasks their are from the a project’s list view.
  • Can complete a task with incomplete subtasks.

Losing tasks is counter to one of the primary values of Asana. But their is value in another layer of hierarchy that a subtask could provide.

I propose the following changes as minimum requirements to make subtasks valuable.

  • Make subtasks visible from a projects task list. Display them differently so it is clear that is it a subtask to a task. (i.e. subtasks listed below a task, subtasks indented from the task in the list, tasks and their subtasks will only move in the list order as a single unit)
  • Don’t allow a task with incomplete subtasks to be completed, while providing a meaningful error message.
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