Not long ago were the days when an "app" was the course before the entree. These days, however, the meaning is all about smartphone technology. And while you may not yet see the connection between technology and home organization and design, you will after checking out the five apps below. They were rounded up by Kishore Kumar, an organization expert and the CEO of number three on the list, AllThingsMine [1]. If you need convincing that you should take advantage of technology to whip your house into shape, consider this: the National Organization of Professional Organizers has found that getting rid of clutter can eliminate up to 40 percent of house work. You could pay big bucks for a pro organizer to clean out your clutter or do it yourself with a little help from one of these free or nearly free apps. Here's what Kishmore had to say about them:

BrightNest

What it is: BrightNest [2] not only reminds you when it's time to clean your home, but it also gives you customized tips based on your needs and your home's unique traits. With this app, you can explore thousands of cleaning, organizing, design and maintenance articles on topics like painting tips and how to change your air filter.

Cost: Free

Sortly

What it is: Sortly [3] helps organize your stuff so you can easily find what you need. With the app, you can take photos of and catalogue items like pillows, jewelry, books, and collectibles. In addition, organization and moving is made easy with its labeling feature. Just snap a picture of your item and print a QR label so you never lose track of your valuables.

Cost: Free (Premium Version: $7.99)

AllThingsMine

What it is: AllThingsMine is a free personal gadget assistant that manages all the devices you own, including kitchen appliances and electronics. The AllThingsMine [4] app, which is connected to the Cloud, eliminates clutter and helps you stay organized by digitally keeping track of warranties, software updates, user manuals, and reciepts — all in one place. It also lets you connect with friends and family to share and discover new products and reviews through the people you trust.

Cost: Free

HomeRoutines

What it is: HomeRoutines [5] lets you create lists of routine chores that you need to take care of on a regular basis. Chores are broken down by days of the week and time of day, and the app sends you reminders to help you stay on top of your tasks. Home Routines also has a feature called 'Focus Zones,' which allows you to assign certain rooms of your house to specific days for organization and cleaning.

Cost: $4.99

Task Rabbit

What it is: TaskRabbit [6] is a hassle-free way to get things done around the house with just a push of a button. You can pick a chore, and the app matches you with a freelance tasker who will take care of organizing, cleaning, or fixing your home when you don't have the time or energy to do it yourself. While the app is free, it does present a selection of prices depending on the task and the freelancer.

Cost: Free