I’ve written a lot about the different apps you can use to create and view files on the iPad. I’ve also mentioned Dropbox a ton as a key element in my document storage and retrieval workflow on the iPad, though there are lots of good cloud storage solutions. Unfortunately, some of the file creation apps don’t easily allow you to save a new file to these cloud based tools or they are inconsistent in how to do it. As a result, new files often live in the app in which they were created, sending your file management tactics back to the floppy disk days. So, for files I plan to use elsewhere (back at the office, home, with my assistant), I use Dropbox to ease these file management troubles (though this tip works with many cloud storage solutions). One required app to use this tip is GoodReader. Here’s how you do it.
In my example, I’m using a file created in Pages. In some of the more fully featured apps you can shortcut certain of these steps, but if you understand this general workflow, you will be able to navigate any app’s idiosyncrasies.
Done!
Personally, I like to then remove the file from the creating app and GoodReader to avoid file multiplication and versioning woes. Note: confirm the file is safely in the cloud and readable before deleting versions on the iPad.
Some apps make this process simpler. For example, in Documents To Go Premium, you can move the file to GoodReader from within the app or use the “Save As…” feature or simply name your cloud storage target as the destination. Quick Office Connect Mobile Suite shortcuts the whole process by allowing you to simply drag and drop a file from the app’s file manager into your cloud drive. Apple’s apps do no such favors. Nor do many of the special purpose note taking apps.
Very helpful post. Thanks very much. DropBox is an essential app. FYI, two big iPad developments this week. On Saturday FastCase HD was released and yesterday a new app that permits viewing of WordPerfect files in html, WPD Viewer was made available.
Josh,
I am curious to why you use GoodReader when you can simply “favorite” them in Dropbox. “Favoriting” an item in Dropbox allows you to access the item local when there is no wifi. I don’t own GoodReader so I’m wondering what the advantage is?
By the way, I’m a CPA and I’ve yet to try this with a prospective client. Thanks for this helpful post!
Yeah, a favorite item in Dropbox just makes it available offline. The GoodReader element of the workflow is how to save an edited file BACK into your Dropbox once you have edited it on your iPad. Unfortunately, some apps don’t allow you to save directly to Dropbox, hence this work around.
It is confusing since GoodReader and Dropbox provide similar file viewing functions. But in this workflow, I’m using GoodReader to move files around. Dropbox doesn’t yet allow me to do that. When the ubiquitous “Open In…” button lists Dropbox as a place where you can move a file to, that might cut GoodReader out of the workflow.
I learned about http://www.gethabilis.com/ from Charles Stross’ blog. It’s a webservice that facilitates emailing documents directly back to one’s dropbox. It does simplify the workflow a wee bit.