Expert: jack - 3/29/2005

Question
I would like to use top tab files in a new, vertical filing system.  I do not want to convert all my files to end files.  Can I go from right to left so that the files will be alpha order front to back, or must I always file from left to right?  This has turned into an inter-office debate and I would like an expert opinion please.

Answer
Dear Nancy,

I'm glad you asked for an opinion. There are really very few rules set in stone about this subject. And, as far as expert, you will find that experts often disagree about this. So, here's mine.

I have not heard the expression "end files". Perhaps you mean files with all the tabs at the same spot at the end of all the file folders. If that is not your meaning, then my opinion below may be off.

If you are talking about files in desk drawers (like two drawers high), if the files are to left of your knee hole - for easier visibilty, I would suggest placing the tabs in alpha order from left to right, so they don't obstruct each other, and are easy to see. For the drawers on the right, I would do the opposite - right to left.

In the case of larger standup files, usually 4 or 5 drawers high, the same rule would apply if the standup file was in the left forward corner or the left wall of a room, it would be awkward to read if the tabs were right to left. And, vice versa.

If the standup files files are set up for a number of others to access, and are not in the corner, then a human factors principle having to do with population stereotypes would come into play. And that is - people read from left to right (in English, anyway), and are used to reading files that way also, so in that case I think you would defer to what people are used to doing, accomodating their patterns and not trying to change them.

If you are the only one to use the files, or the one who predominantly uses them, set it up to please yourself.

As you can see, I am not at all suggesting that they always have to be one way or the other. To me the rule to be followed is not "right or left", but rather "ease of visibility.

Interesting that it has become a debate. Nancy, I would love to hear how it turns out. Please let me know at my email address Jackrap1@aol.com.

Happy filing!

Jack