I spend time with a HotSpot map or other maps I can find on the lake. I also use Google Maps, especially useful when the water levels are down.
Couple of things to keep in mind.
The topography you can see next to the water is generally the same under the water. If its a steep bank, more than likely its steep under water as well.
If there is a point, it will be a point under water too.
Look for Crappie highways, creek channels between cover/flats/etc.
Watch the weather patterns, bait fish get pushed into coves by the wind, Crappie will be close behind.
At night the Crappie will push the bait up on flats, swim up and feed and drop back to the deep water.
Ask anglers getting off the water what species they were after, how they did, what depth they caught fish, and what baits they used. Not one of those questions is about their "secret spot". All that information puts together a pattern, repeat that pattern on ever location on the lake you can find. Read the map to find related spots.
How much time on the water do I spend looking for other spots, all day long. Every time I move from one spot to another I watch the depth finder and look for changes in countour. I look for road beds, creek channels, fish cribs, etc. If something looks good Ill spin around and take a second look.
I also spend time trying new techniques.
HOI Crappie Club
Where family and friends come to compete for a little more than bragging rights.
Quick, someone teach me how to fish so I can win this tournament!!!