In a message dated 1/28/99 4:59:20 AM Eastern Standard Time, [log in to unmask]
writes:

> I keep hoping that someday I will be able to throw it all into a cyber-
hopper,
>  where it will be automatically scanned and put onto a CD Rom, ready for
>  instant retrieval by keyword, author, subject, and title.

Other than the time required for scanning I am finding saving print
information on the computer more and more of a solution. But it is not there
yet.

For the reams of files, such as catalog cuts, brochures, article clippings
etc. I keep an MS Word file with an outline of all the crap in what I call the
research cabinet. I find this easier than messing with a database program. I
have a macro so I can call up the word file, do a search, and find where the
information *should* be. This takes time to manage, so I manage it poorly. I
figure if I can find what I am looking for 80% of the time then it is better
than having to call someone for new copies. I consider information an
important asset of the business, and being able to find the information is
also important. When I go through mail I take the time to check where things
should go, throw things away, and make new files as needed. I tend to end up
with a tall stack of papers sitting in my office that I play with when 1) I am
brain dead or 2) business is slow. The size of the pile thus becomes a measure
of the health of the business activity. Usually in playing with the piles of
paper it gives me new ideas of constructive things to do.

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