Efficiency Tip #102 – The List

I had to rebuild one of my computers this weekend.  I do this from time to time.  Windows has an entropy problem and the OS seems to run best when freshly installed.

Since I like my computer setup in a particular way, certain applications must be installed on a new computer.  I keep a list of all my critical applications.  In addition to the typical programs like Word, Excel and PowerPoint, my list includes a lot of little things like my batch programs and all the command line utilities that I use.  Most of what I install is free: WS_FTP, RSS Reader, 7-Zip, Eudora, Firefox, etc.  The list assures I don’t leave anything off.

In case my computer crashes, I keep my list on the server.  I have found that I do re-installs enough that I also store most of the programs from the list on the server.  In fact, the program directory itself is as good as the list.  I start installing from the top of the directory and work my way down.