Project Support Materials

[remyc88]

I was wondering how some of you handle project support material?

I think my main problem is keeping track of where all the information is.

Let me give you an example: Suppose I have a project that is to "Write a Book." Here are all the areas where my Project Support Material might be.

1. A folder in Outlook for my email correspondence regarding the book
2. Another folder in my Computer for the drafts of the book.
3. A physical folder for articles and such that might relate to the book
4. A bookshelf for books that I want to use as sources.

Now it would be fine if I only have one project that has all these areas, but that's not the case. I have multiple projects and each have a combination of these four areas.

Any suggestions?

 

[kglade]

My short answer is 'make a list.'

When I have a complicated project, I make a list of folders, a list of contacts, a list of major subproject, etc.

I store the lists in one central place and use that as the index to everything. It is too much work for a small project, but small projects tend to have fewer things to list anyway.

 

[Frank Buck]

A quick way to turn 4 places into 3 places is to save all of your electronic stuff in a folder on your computer and not have one in Outlook and another somewhere else. To save your e-mail related to that project, choose "save as" and select the project folder as your destination.

As for the projects that have a physical file folder and some shelf space on the bookcase, wuold it help to stick a note in the file folder to remind you of where your bulkier items are? (Bookshelf 1, Shelf 1?)

Frank

 

[andmor]

Saving Emails

Good point, Frank:

Some time ago, I reluctantly returned to Outlook Express because you can drag emails into the Windows Explorer. I do like Pocomail, but you can't drag. I don't use Outlook because I have been bitten by an email-borne virus. This method keeps the Outlook Express folders clean.

Andrew

 

[remyc88]

Frank: ooh... interesting idea. I think i'll try that! thanks!

kglade: yeah, I've been thinking of using a list as well. I guess the biggest hassle is to associate every (or basically as needed) next action with the needed project support material.