Helper Workflow Apps

Re-recorded and updated: February 24, 2018

The purpose of workflow applications is to improve your efficiency. There are many tools available to assist you. Here are a few that we use and recommend.

Alfred – Fast Application Search and Launch

Alfred adds an application search bar to your screen, thereby allowing you to find and load applications using hotkeys and keywords. Instead of reaching for the mouse or touchpad, navigating to launchpad, and then searching for the application you need, Alfred keeps your hands on the keyboard. Simply activate the search bar with an easy keystroke—which you can configure—and then start typing in the name of the application.

Sequel Pro – MySQL Database Manager

Sequel Pro is a MySQL database management application which replaces phpMyAdmin. With this application, you are able to access the databases on your local machine using a friendly and easy-to-use UI. You are able to do all the tasks available in phpMyAdmin.

iTerm2 – A Better Terminal App

Terminal is amazing. But I still find I want more from the app. I use iTerm2, as it provides additional tools to support your workflow including tabs, hotkeys, search, autocompletes, and so much more. It’s completely free. Go here to learn more and then download it.

Finder Enhancements

There are many shortcomings in the native Finder application, such as cut and paste, tabs, side-by-side panes, bookmarks, and access to hidden files and folders. Path Finder is a solid Finder replacement application which provides the enhancements for your workflow.

FTP Client

There are times when you want a File Transfer Protocol (FTP) graphical user interface (GUI) as opposed to the command line. A FTP client handles the transfer of files between a remote web server and your local development computer. We recommend either of the following applications:

• FileZilla
• Transmit

FileZilla

FileZilla is a free FTP client application which provides an intuitive, easy-to-use GUI for transferring files between your computer and a remote web server. For basic file transfers, FileZilla is a handy tool to have in your local development environment.

Transmit

Just like FileZilla, Transmit is a FTP client application. However, Transmit’s advantages are transfer speeds, ability to transfer large files, sync, and an amazing GUI and user experience. This premium application provides you with more tools than FileZilla.

Displaying Hidden Files and Folder

Throughout the videos, you will see references to hidden files and folder. To show the hidden content, open Terminal, type defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles YES, and press return. Next you will need to restart Finder. To no longer show the hidden content, repeat the process, except change the YES to NO as shown here defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles NO.

Another handy approach is to add an alias into your ~/.bash_profile. A simple Google search will help you to find how to add the file and then add an alias.