Naming conventions

Tracy Wadlow

I want to do a clean up and consolidation of queries, exports and imports.  What are some of the best practises for naming conventions.


 

JoAnn Strommen

IMO naming conventions are unique to every org. I started with a few folders. Found some were getting to large so looked at how they could be divided and did so. I have folders for current and past annual campaigns. Found I was running a lot of queries related to staff so I created a staff folder. 


My query files out number by far the # of exports and import files. For generating a mailing list for one of our news letters the query and the export have the same name so it's easy to find and run.


Some orgs have a folder for each user. Or names that begin with users initials. Some may have folder for each fund or names that begin with fund ID.


Look at what you have, figure out a logical structure so that files can be found efficiently.  If queries, exports, imports no longer of use are deleted regularly the size should stay manageable.

Tracy Wadlow

THanks agian JoAnn;


I did, I made an excel spreadsheet and included a column for last used date.


Hopefully we can consolidate the dupes etc.  I started using same name, but now I have Dashboard queries, Stat Queries etc.   I'll work at it.


JoAnn Strommen:

IMO naming conventions are unique to every org. I started with a few folders. Found some were getting to large so looked at how they could be divided and did so. I have folders for current and past annual campaigns. Found I was running a lot of queries related to staff so I created a staff folder. 


My query files out number by far the # of exports and import files. For generating a mailing list for one of our news letters the query and the export have the same name so it's easy to find and run.


Some orgs have a folder for each user. Or names that begin with users initials. Some may have folder for each fund or names that begin with fund ID.


Look at what you have, figure out a logical structure so that files can be found efficiently.  If queries, exports, imports no longer of use are deleted regularly the size should stay manageable.

 

Cathy Spencer

Great suggestions, JoAnn. I always learn something new from you! Thank you, Tracy, for asking the question!