File & Folder Naming Conventions

It's important to be consistent and descriptive in naming files. The descriptive file name will assist visitors and users when saving a file.

• The file name should be descriptive of the file.  Visitors may be saving it.
  
• Do not use spaces. Instead use:
  • dashes: file-name.doc (preferred for search engines)
  • or underscores: file_name.doc
  • or camel case: FileName.doc
• Special characters should be avoided: ~ ! @ # $ % ^ & * ( ) ` ; < > ? , [ ] { } ‘ “
• Only 1 dot per filename and it belongs just prior to the file extension
• If a date is included, always use a numeric 8-digit date in the yyyymmdd format.
  • If only month and year are available: yyyymm
  • If only year is available: yyyy
• Add the year in front of the file name if it's important to sort by year.
• Add the date into to the end of the file name if it's important to sort by name
• Don’t make file names too long; longer names do not work well with all types of software.
• For sequential numbering, use leading zeros to ensure files sort properly.  “001, 002” instead of “1, 2, etc.”
  
  

• Project name
• Locations info
• Researchers name or initials
• Date or date range
• Type of data
• Readability

Bulk Rename Utility