When you have a huge log of files, it can be difficult to find what you need. Manually sifting through them can be cumbersome and time-consuming. All in all, it’s an ineffective system. Luckily, there are plenty of search tools you can use to find the computer file you’re looking for.
SeekFast
SeekFast is a software search engine you can download to your computer to filter through files. Just like any other search engine, you can type in keywords you’re looking for and search through the results to find what you need. Even better, it’s free - you don’t have to break the bank or work it into a company budget.
SeekFast also goes through almost any type of computer file. This helps to avoid using multiple search engines just to look through different file types. Not to mention, it helps to give you results that match one another. For example, if you need a document and a presentation on the same topic, they’ll both come up in the results. Here are some of the files SeekFast will open;
- Microsoft Word (‘97-’03 DOCs and current DOCX)
- Microsoft PowerPoint (PPTX)
- Microsoft Excel (XLSX)
- OpenOffice Document Text (ODT)
- PDF Files (PDF)
- Rich Text Format (RTF)
- Most text files
BizPortals 365
If you have a lot of documents, odds are they might be shared. BizPortals 365 focuses on allowing organizations and businesses to create a seamless shared platform. It covers everything your business might need. This includes not only document management but project management, workflow automation, and even HR as well.
This tool works with Office 360 which means it’s compatible with spreadsheets, PowerPoint, and documents. In addition, it works well with other Mircosoft apps you might use such as Skype or OneDrive. Its straightforward design helps keep your files in one place where anyone who needs it can quickly access it. Since it’s so straightforward, it isn't hard to use either. While the software isn’t free, it does offer a free trial and an affordable monthly price if you find it fits your needs.
PandaDoc
PandaDoc is interesting because it was made with running a business in mind. Not only does it allow for file sharing and searching, but it also has a signature feature that makes it easy to create legally binding contracts without wasting any paper. When it comes to searching files, this software goes beyond just presenting a list of files. Instead, it also gives you the status on those documents. For example, if the document is completed or still a draft, you’ll have that information right away.
It’s also an interesting choice on this list because you can create documents using the software as well. It offers plenty of features to personalize your documents and brand but not so many that it’s overwhelming to use.
eFileCabinet
eFileCabinet is another piece of software that is made with entrepreneurs and small businesses in mind. The side panel on the left has folders you can label and use much like you would on a standard computer file explorer. They can even be broken up into sub-files to make organizing everything more detailed and easier to find.
Of course, you won’t have to find anything in this file holder manually either. With the advanced search toolbar, you can search for topics or keywords that will bring up related results. The customized workflow and simple design make this software easy to use and since it can be synced across devices, you can easily access your documents from anywhere. Once again the software isn’t completely free but they do offer a free demo so you can try it before you buy it.
Conclusion
File management can be tricky if you don’t have a system in place. It’s easy for a network of saved files to turn into a mess if they’re left in generic folders with a sea of other files. With the file management and search tools we’ve looked at here, you can keep everything in order and find anything you need in seconds.