1.3. Tools
Apart from keeping files properly organized, we need to be able to find them easily in our different devices whenever we need them.
A good organization system will foster a fast, efficient search, as will using the proper search parameters (author, date, name, file type, tag…).
The operating systems currently used make it possible to perform advanced or smart searches. If a given type of search is performed on a regular basis, search parameters may be stored so that the search may be performed faster and in more automated way.
| File search engine | Operating system/Platform | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Launchy |  |
Free application that indexes programmes in the start menu and allows for searching for and accessing documents, files and folders in just a few clicks. |
| ES File Explorer |  |
It’s free. It stands out because it plays all the following roles: application manager, task manager, cloud storage server-client (Dropbox, Google Drive, Box.net), ftp client and samba client. You can explore pictures, music, videos, documents and other files in your cell phone and on your computer. |
| Astro File Manager | |
A well-rounded file management tool that also includes the possibility to perform application backups or manage open processes. Free with ads. |
| FX File Explorer | |
A file manager designed to let you manage all the content in your cell phone or tablet in a fast, easy way. Basic version free. |
| Spotlight |  |
File explorer included in the operating system. |
| Search&Siri | |
File searcher in iPhone, iPad. |
| Windows File Explorer |  |
|
| Searching for Files in Windows 7 using the command line |  |
We may also search for files using the command line. |
| Searching for files in Windows 10 using the command line | |
We may also search for files using the command line. |
| Searching for files in Linux | |
We may also search for files using the command line. |
Renaming blocks makes it possible to change the name to several files at the same time, without having to waste your time changing names one by one.
A good example of that can be found when exporting picture files; we may want to change their default name in a fast way.
 |
 |
 |
|---|---|---|
| NameChanger
|
Renamer
Windows Explorer (no software installed) |
We may rename files using the command line:
|
There are several applications and software solutions to change folder colors and add icons. By using them, we make file management more visual, and the documents we are searching for can be found more quickly.
|
 |
|
|---|---|---|
| Folder Maker. Free.
Folderico. Free period. Paid |
Xyplorer. Free period. Paid | Change folder colors with Finder |
Strategy 4 in these guidelines provides more information on tags. The guidelines for a proper tagging of files and folders may be found in that section.
|
Tags in Windows |
|---|---|
|
Tags in Linux |
|
Tags in MAC |
 |
Create a shortcut to the home screen in Android |
|---|---|
|
Create shortcuts with Windows 10 |
|
Create shortcuts in Linux |
|
Create alias (shortcut) in MAC |