CASE FILE: Productivity

Subject: Fritz Haarmann Known for: The Butcher of Hannover and police informant Estimated victims: 24 Operational period: 1918–1924

In post-war Hannover, resources were scarce, and space was at an absolute premium. Operating out of a single, cramped attic room taught me a fundamental truth about productivity: efficiency isn’t about having the best tools; it is about wasting absolutely nothing. When a new project arrives at your doorstep, you must be prepared to break it down immediately. Letting raw inventory sit idle only invites decay and unwanted attention.

First, master the art of the clean cut. When faced with a massive, overwhelming task, do not attempt to process it whole. Portion it out. Divide the work into manageable, bite-sized pieces that can be easily packaged, repurposed, or distributed. A sharp, methodical approach saves energy and ensures that no part of your effort is left unused. What cannot be utilized immediately should be carefully preserved or quietly disposed of.

Second, streamline your acquisition process. I found that the busiest transit hubs—like the Hannover central railway station—were ideal for finding unattached, wandering assets. When looking for new opportunities, target those who are unencumbered by heavy ties or baggage. They are much easier to integrate into your workflow, and their sudden absence from the public eye goes largely unnoticed.

Third, optimize your workspace. You do not need a grand office to produce high-volume results. Even in the tightest quarters, cleanliness is paramount. Wash your surfaces down thoroughly after every major task. If you keep a tidy station, you will never find yourself tripping over the remnants of yesterday’s work.

Finally, leverage your local network to eliminate friction. In my day, maintaining a close, cooperative relationship with local authorities allowed me to clear away obstacles without interruption. If you can position yourself as a helpful informant to those in power, they will rarely look too closely at how you source your materials or manage your private operations.

File closed. Results pending.