Master monday.com Dependencies: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 01/06/2025

Unlock the true power of monday.com with this comprehensive guide to mastering dependencies. Learn how to seamlessly link tasks, manage complex projects, and visualize workflows effectively. We'll walk you through setting up dependencies step-by-step, covering everything from simple to advanced scenarios. Get ready to streamline your project management and boost team productivity with this essential skill.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Add a Dependency Column

    • Add a Dependency Column
    • Select 'Dependency' from the 'More Columns' option.
    Select 'Dependency' from the 'More Columns' option. Select 'Dependency' from the 'More Columns' option.
    Add a Dependency Column

  2. Configure Dependency Settings

    • Choose a Date Timeline Column (e.g., start date).
    Choose a Date Timeline Column (e.g., start date).
    Configure Dependency Settings

  3. Create Dependencies between Items

    • Select items to define dependencies.
    Establish Dependencies between Items: Select items to define dependencies.
    Create Dependencies between Items

  4. Automate Status Updates (Optional)

    • Use automations to automatically update item statuses based on dependency completion.
    Adjust Item States Based on Dependencies: Use automations to automatically update item statuses based on dependency completion.
    Automate Status Updates (Optional)

  5. Connect and Mirror Boards (Optional)

    • Connect and Mirror Boards. This step enhances workflow management, but is not explicitly demonstrated in detail.
    Optional: Connect and Mirror Boards. This step enhances workflow management, but is not explicitly demonstrated in detail.
    Connect and Mirror Boards (Optional)
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Tips

  • Utilize Automations: Automate adjustments to item states based on dependencies for efficiency.
  • Consider Connected Boards: Connect related boards to improve overall project visibility and management. (Further details in a separate tutorial)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Ignoring Dependency Order

Reason: Setting up dependencies without considering the correct sequence can lead to tasks being blocked unnecessarily or completed out of order.
Solution: Carefully plan the order of dependencies, ensuring that prerequisites are completed before dependent tasks begin.

2. Overusing Dependencies

Reason: Creating too many dependencies can make your workflow overly complex, difficult to manage, and slow down progress.
Solution: Minimize dependencies by focusing on the essential relationships between tasks and streamlining the workflow.

3. Failing to Update Dependencies

Reason: Changes in project scope or unforeseen delays aren't reflected in the dependency structure, leading to inaccurate timelines and potential roadblocks.
Solution: Regularly review and update dependencies to reflect the current state of the project.

FAQs

What are dependencies in monday.com?
Dependencies in monday.com link tasks together, indicating that one task must be completed before another can begin. This ensures tasks are completed in the correct order and prevents bottlenecks.
How do I create a dependency between two tasks?
Select the task that needs to be completed first. Then, click the three dots (More) and choose 'Dependencies.' Select the dependent task from the list that appears. You can also adjust the dependency type (e.g., 'Start After,' 'Finish Before').
What happens if a dependent task is delayed?
monday.com's timeline and progress views will automatically reflect the delay, indicating which tasks are impacted. This allows you to quickly identify and address potential project delays.