With MS Office 2003 and Win XP there is a faster alternative to finding files than using the Search/For Files and Folders approach. Much of the time we are searching for a key word, or phrase in an email, spreadsheet, or text document; so why not launch the search from there. From within Outlook, Excel and Word the faster alternative is to use File/File Search. We'll cover an example using the Basic File Search, and the Advanced File Search.
Basic File Search
The Basic File Search menu opens and provides a Search text window. Enter your word or phrase there. Before clicking Go, verify that the Search in has My Computer selected, and that Results should be has Anything selected. Then click Go.
Advanced File Search
The Advanced File Search supports the Boolean 'AND' 'OR' operators, i.e. Text or property includes diamond, AND:text or property includes Marquis. What allows the Advanced File Search to really differentiate itself, is the ability to include searching on a property, and the variety of conditions that can be selected. Note the property and conditions each have their own window, and pull-down. Explore each one to get a better feel for what can be done.
If you utilize the settings available under File/Properties/Custom - the Advanced File Search is able to provide fine granularity to your search. In a large company with files on a server, it would be desirable to find files by attributes, such as Department, Client, Author, Project, etc.
New Year's Resolution
Begin utilizing the File/Properties/Custom capabilities for better document management, control, collaboration, and search.
From the editor
This is our last TechTIP for this year, twenty-five in all since we began in June. Please keep us in mind for next year if you need help with sales forecasting, marketing collateral materials, or training in PowerPoint, Excel, or ACT! Click on the Our Services link to see a more complete description of our offerings, and capabilities.
Our first issue of TechTIP will begin again on 11 JAN 2006.
Season's Greetings and Happy New Year!
Corbitt Associates provides sales, marketing and training capabilities, when you don't have resources available. Your resources may not have the required skill and experience, or they may be committed to another project. Don't let that program get behind, or go undone. Contact us, to be your extended team. When you can't Do It Yourself (DIY), we can Do It For You (DIFY).
If you would like to contact us, please send email to: editor@corbittassociates.com
Corbitt Associates
3590 Lester CT SW
Lilburn, GA 30047-7504