> checklists ... where do they really fit as far as how we file them

Make a list of ones for each desired time scope - daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, ... Store them wherever makes sense; in Outlook, Notes are a good place to put them.

> handling reoccurring tasks

I'd put the task in the calendar as a recurring appointment, set to repeat accordingly.

> applying the system to a busy sales career

I'm not in the field, but here are some ideas and resources:

o keep a checklist of all clients, which you review weekly and ask: Do I need to do anything to deepen the relationship?

o make each client a project, but rename the project based on the client state, as the sale goes through: qualifying, etc.

o related:
http://www.davidco.com/forum/showthread.php?t=6731
http://www.davidco.com/forum/showpos...58&postcount=2
http://www.davidco.com/forum/showpos...80&postcount=5
http://www.davidco.com/forum/showthr...4741#post34741

Hope that helps.