Archive for the ‘search’ tag
Paperless journalist: Document management tips
Moving from paper to paperless document management, I've learnt:
Use meaningful file names
Windows allows file names of up to 256 characters. Give documents meaningful names fully describing their contents. Add keywords if you think this will help.
Property fields
If you store Microsoft Word documents, use the property fields. You can get to these in Word 2007 by clicking the Microsoft Office Button , selecting Prepare and then Properties.
Date information is stored automatically when you create or save a document.
Use document folders
Some say modern PC search tools mean folders are no longer important. I disagree – sometimes you need an overview of related files.
Organise your documents into folders with relevant folder names. If it helps, nest them in sub folders. Use the same folder names to organise your email and browser favourites. I also use the same names for tagging.
Use email rules to automatically route messages to the right folder. Pretty soon you’ll develop a routine of always storing documents in the right place and you’ll know where to find things.
Master desktop search
Learn how to use your computer’s search tools. Windows, Mac OS and Linux all have good tools as standard.
If you move away from built-in search, the best tools for your needs depend on the applications you use. Some swear by alternatives such as Google Desktop Search and Copernic.
Google Desktop Search is bloated and slow, but adds your Gmail files to the database. Copernic is a good alternative and searches just about every file type you'll encounter. It doesn't search Gmail and it’s not at its best when used with Vista and Outlook.
Microsoft Outlook
I no longer use Microsoft Outlook for day-to-day email, but the applications is a great document management tool. You can search for and view document files as well as email messages. Remember emails are often also important documents.
Additional keywords
Use a document’s properties to store extra keyword information and comments. This is particularly useful if you have scanned documents stored as an image.
Get short-term work with dumbed down résumé
Lifehacker Australia says some employers worry about hiring overqualified staff. So if you need a job in a hurry is to send an honest résumé that leaves off your more impressive achievements.
Land Short-Term Work With A Dumbed Down Résumé | Lifehacker Australia.