physical "wait for" folder ?

[Tom.9]

Do I need a physical w/f folder?

I read that the paper sheet isn´t the reminder, but that I write something concerning the stuff I´m waiting for on my w/f list.

So why store the paper sheets in an extra folder (instead of shifting them to reference or project support) ?

[S-Tolland]

Hi Tom,
I have a Waiting For folder that I use to store the single items that don't have a project but are related to a WF item. I also use it as a "quick find" area for those items that I don't want to put into reference. Eg. I have receipts from credit card usage that I must log for work purposes - the card is used regularly and it is much easier to leave a colour plastic folder in my WF support which I can find quickly and easily when I have something to add to the file. The file sits on my desk so it is quick to hand.
If you feel that you would prefer to keep things in a reference or project file that is no problem - create the system to suit your needs and way of working.
Hope this is helpful.
Sarah

[CJSullivan]

If I have something that really isn't related to a project (like an order confirmation) I keep it in a WAITING FOR tray. Everything goes on my WF list, and then if I feel it's necessary I make myself a note as to where it is (e.g. Proj file, WF file...) I often use that notation to really make sure my brain has NOTHING to remember about the item...

[Oogiem]

I use a waiting for folder to hold the things I am waiting for that will then be moved or filed elsewhere when they are complete.

For example, I have some outstanding invoices I am waiting for payment on. Once the payment comes in I'll enter it into my accounting system and then file the invoices in the appropriate reference folder. I don't like to put ones that haven't been paid there because I scan and then shred my reference folder contents once a month. I need a quick place to look for any that are past due so I can remind the people to pay up. I also don't like to use the tickler file for them because I never know exactly when I'll receive the payment and It's harder to search for something to find the invoice and process it appropriately. There is no separate project folder for these things either so filing them in project support doesn't make sense.

[cfoley]

After reading some of the comments in this thread, I think a waiting for folder sounds like a good idea.

However, in the course of not having one, I have labelled a lot of folders for single sheets of paper. The value of doing that has frequently surprised me. As soon as I have a second piece of paper there is somewhere it belongs. Having somewhere for it to belong is important because it reduces my resistance to writing notes to self or reducing scribbled diagrams.

[gtderik]

Do I need a physical w/f folder?

I read that the paper sheet isn´t the reminder, but that I write something concerning the stuff I´m waiting for on my w/f list.

So why store the paper sheets in an extra folder (instead of shifting them to reference or project support) ?

Tom, I also use a WF folder like S-Tolland: A desktop holding bin that I will look at during the weekly review (at a minimum). For example, If I capture a voicemail off my phone, return the phone call (during processing) and get THEIR voicemail, I will often note the date/time I called and throw it in the WF folder. For me, its easier to use the same piece of paper in this case than to add to my list. Just a low-tech component of my system.

If its too much work to do this re: "So why store the paper sheets in an extra folder (instead of shifting them to reference or project support)" you can certainly add to a list/reference/support file and be done with it. Its all up to you and how you interact with your agreements.

[SiobhanBR]

I have a bright red Waiting For Support Folder in my desk drawer. I very frequently call someone about a particular issue and have to leave a voice message. When they call back I am always in the middle of something else so I can maximize this interruption by grabbing the folder as we say hello and finding the paper easily without having to interrupt the call.

The timing of action for waiting fors is out of my control, so I don't like putting them in the tickler unless it is a specific date I'm waiting for, rather than somebody else.

[artsinaction]

I use both a Waiting For list and a folder so I can easily find the documentation BUT in my weekly review I'll go over the list and often forget to pull the folder, or I run out of time before getting to it. When I finally do, I always find items I should have pulled and processed in a previous review. So, I'm getting better but I still have a ways to go.

Dena