Summary
Creating matching filing systems for both paper and electronic data makes it easier for you to sort, access, and organize information. By reducing the amount of paper you print and saving your data electronically, you will reap enormous savings in time and expense. To feel comfortable with electronic data storage, however, you need to understand a few computer basics. If you have difficulties sorting out exactly how your computer works, you might benefit from taking a class or talking with your computer consultant or IT system manager.
In this chapter we learned how to
Reduce paper consumption and avoid printing. Keep information in electronic form and rely on your computer for your data.
Create a master outline structure of all your information and data. Use this outline as the basis for organizing all your paper and electronic systems.
Perform regular computer maintenance to optimize your computer system.
Take a computer class to understand the basics of your computer, trouble-shooting, and maintenance.
In the next chapter, "Creating the Perfect File System," we discuss in detail how to create an electronic and paper file system that is easy to use and maintain.