Google Workspace for Families: The System You Didn’t Know You Already Had
Why Google Workspace Works for Families
Most people think of Gmail when they hear “Google.” But Google Workspace is the full ecosystem: and it’s already free.
Used strategically, it becomes a command center for your household - accessible anywhere, sharable with your partner or kids, and easy to manage even if you’re not tech-savvy.
Here’s how we set it up for EDB Executive Family Management clients:
Gmail: The Communications Hub
Use the EDB Inbox Framework to create sections like “Needs Response,” “Waiting,” and “File”
Set up filters and folders (e.g., School, Confirmations, Receipts)
Share access with your partner using a family Gmail account
Google Calendar: The Source of Truth
Color-code categories: Work, Kids, Home, Self
Add recurring events like trash night, bill due dates, and weekend resets
Share calendars across all family members or keep private layers as needed
Google Drive: The Filing Cabinet
Create folders like:
“School”
“Medical”
“House Projects”
“Travel Plans”
Upload PDF confirmations, report cards, scanned documents
Share folders with your partner or family support
Google Docs: The Shared Brain
Grocery lists, packing lists, party plans, house project notes
Use as a family journal, pet medical tracker, or emergency binder
Edit from your phone, your laptop…wherever you are
Google Keep: The Stickies That Sync
Running to-do lists
Meal ideas
Quick notes to share
Grocery list on your phone = no more forgotten items
Bonus: Google Password Manager
Keep logins secure and sharable
Syncs across devices
Easily stores passwords for utilities, school portals, medical accounts
“The most powerful system for your family might already be sitting in your inbox.”
- The EDB Method
How to Make It Work Together
Use one shared Gmail address as the anchor
Sync calendar + Drive to all family devices
Create a folder and naming convention system that mirrors your physical file system (we help clients set this up as part of the EDB Method)
Don’t use it all at once: start with Gmail + Calendar, then build from there
One Last Thought:
You don’t need a new app. You just need to use what you already have, on purpose.
I offer 1:1 Executive Family Management services for busy families who need structure that sticks.
From digital organization to day-to-day logistics, I’ll help you set up systems that work, so you can focus on what matters.
