Storage Directory Formats

Guide to offline storage directory layouts — binder indexes, location diagrams, and prefix systems used by App Summit Field clients.

Why a paper directory

When the power is out, when a phone battery dies, or when someone unfamiliar with your home needs to find a specific archive box, a printed directory on a shelf works without boot time, passwords, or signal. Our directories are designed for these moments — not as a replacement for digital records, but as a reliable map to physical ones.

Directory formats we prepare

Single-binder index

The most common format. One A4 ring binder divided into storage zones (Shelf A, Drawer 2, Safe, etc.). Each page lists item ID, description, location, and date added. Suitable for households with up to 100 labeled items.

Dual-register system

For clients with items at two addresses — for example, a home and an office storeroom. Two slim binders share a prefix system but have separate location sections. Cross-reference sheets link items that exist at both sites.

Wallet supplement

An add-on section inserted into an existing directory, dedicated to folio and wallet registers. Lists wallet ID, content categories, and storage location without duplicating the main device index.

Prefix conventions

We recommend short, typed prefixes that sort alphabetically and leave numeric room:

PrefixUse
DRV-USB drives, external hard drives, SD cards
BOX-Archive cartons and storage boxes
FIL-Accordion files and hanging folders
WAL-Personal document wallets and folios
TAP-Backup tapes and legacy media

Numbers start at 001 and increment sequentially. We never reuse a retired number — retired entries are marked in the directory with a strikethrough and disposal date.

Location diagrams

Each directory includes a laminated blank diagram of your storage area. You mark zones with pencil first, then finalize with fine-tip marker. When furniture moves, erase and redraw — the directory pages update separately.

Sample pages at our office

Visit our Jung-gu office on Wednesdays to review sample directories from anonymized past projects. This helps you choose a format before committing to a setup or tagging session.

Available on the Microsoft Store

Printable directory templates and prefix reference cards for home use.

Get it from Microsoft

Browse labeling services Request a directory