File naming
Client File Naming Examples
Client file naming examples for briefs, proposals, meeting notes, deliverables, invoices, feedback, exports, and project documents.
Start with this rule
Client files should include date, document type, project or deliverable, and status. Keep the client name in the folder path; repeat it in the file only when files travel outside the client folder.
Better names to copy
Avoid
notes.docxUse
2026-04-15 - meeting-notes-kickoff.mdDate and meeting type.
Avoid
homepage final.pdfUse
2026-04-22 - deliverable-homepage-copy-v1.pdfVersion beats final.
Avoid
feedback.pdfUse
2026-04-25 - feedback-homepage-copy-client.pdfFeedback source is visible.
Avoid
proposal acme latest.pdfUse
2026-03-30 - proposal-sent-website-refresh.pdfStatus and project.
Avoid
export.zipUse
2026-05-01 - delivery-brand-assets-v2.zipDelivery files need version.
Rules that keep it useful
- Let the folder path carry the client name.
- Use document type before project specifics.
- Use v1, v2, or dates instead of final.
Why this works
- Document types create visible groups.
- Status makes handoff files clear.
- Versions prevent final-final chaos.
Common mistakes
- Repeating client names inside every file when the folder already has it.
- Using latest and final as version control.
- Mixing notes, feedback, and deliverables with no document type.