These check-ins have had a really positive impact for Vicky. “Communication and quality time improves any relationship and this definitely works for us,” she says.

But does this use of “business-style” methods to run a relationship only work for naturally organised people, who thrive off to-do lists and busy schedules? Jo implemented use of Trello into her life with her husband after using it to run a business, and Vicky tells Stylist it “naturally made sense” to use these work-style elements in her personal life because herself and her husband are very organised.

According to relationship expert Charlotte Ball, it’s all about finding the organisational groove that works for you and your partner. “It is more likely to work if the partners are more organised individuals. That said, those who are not highly organised could adopt a simpler approach,” she says, suggesting an “easing in” activity of filling out a calendar together and getting to know each other’s schedules as a starting point.

Of course, we are not machines, and there’s always the risk of miscommunication or an over reliance on technology. Nothing is ever 100% efficient after all – us, our relationships or software.

Molly*, 31, also uses a shared calendar with her long-term partner. However, sometimes the technology used to organise things might cause you to overlook a personal check in or consideration for your partner “It becomes slightly annoying when one of us forgets to actually communicate plans,” Molly explains. “There have been a few occasions when one of us has stuck something in the calendar without asking the other if they’re free or if they want to actually do it.”

So even with the availability of this software to aid our relationship and organising it, communication – IRL and organic – is still very much key.

“While [using technology] can offer efficiency, accountability, and improved communication, couples must be mindful of the potential drawbacks,” Dr Bishop explains. “Balancing the technical aspects with emotional connection and considering individual differences are essential for maintaining a healthy and fulfilling relationship.”

Perhaps the best way to look at it is we’re not viewing our relationships, or the way we deal with them, as “work”, but we are treating them with the same care that we would our career – and that includes both pragmatic methods and emotional intimacy as a sound foundation.

“I would argue that by adopting these practices, you are not viewing your relationship as a business,” Charlotte says. “But you are safeguarding it and giving it the best chance to work, making each partner happy in it.”

Shared calendars and performance reviews: is the key to a happy relationship, running it like a business?