The business blog

A Simple File-Naming System for Business Documents

Use dates, document types, and version labels that make important PDFs easier to find later.

TiPDF EditorialJun 10, 20265 min read

A good filename answers three questions at a glance: what is the document, when was it created, and which version is this?

Choose a predictable pattern

Use a pattern such as YYYY-MM-DD_document-type_subject_status.pdf and keep the order consistent.

Separate drafts from final files

Avoid labels such as final-final. Use a clear status and a version number while work is active.

Write the rule down

A naming system only works when everyone follows it. Put the pattern in a short team guide and include examples.