File Launcher for Windows

[FOBSIDE]

I've been forced to use Windows (XP) for work, because all the major accounting and CMS applications run on Windows. Boot Camp nor Parallels are viable options for me to run on my Mac. I have been quite frustrated in the transition as none of the applications have a uniform look, making it difficult for me to transition back into Windows.

I'm already using Launchy to launch applications. I haven't even checked to see if it works with files like Quicksilver, but because so many of my files have similar names, I can't use it anyway.

Enough about my despair. Is there an application that is freeware for Windows that will allow me to access a folder full of shortcuts really easily? I don't like the QuickLaunch toolbar, nor do I like putting the folder in the start menu. On my Mac I use DragThing, which would allow me to place a "sliding drawer" that stayed on top of other applications and that could close into a tab that stayed on top for easy access. Anything like this for Windows?

 

[FOBSIDE]

No one?

 

[EagleKeeper]

Why not put the shortcut folder on your desktop

 

[FOBSIDE]

It doesn't stay on top of things. Having to hit Windows D to get down to it and not having the windows come back up isn't much help unfortunately. That is why I was looking for something that stays on top but minimizes down to a tab to the side.

 

[EagleKeeper]

If you are willing to work with a 2 step process, put the shortcut folder on on of the toolbars.

The tool bars are on the taskbar already.
Enable a toolbar. Put a shortcut to the shortcut folder or even put the shortcuts from the folder directly on the toolbar.

 

[FOBSIDE]

I thought about that. I have quite a few folders I need to open actually, and I need to recognize them by text. That's going to get quite bulky, which is why I like the minimize to a tab method with just the name on the tab. That is my best option at this point though.

 

[Skeeedunt]

I'm a big Launchy fan, but mostly use it for programs. I haven't tried most of these, but the Lifehacker people live and die by this stuff and review about five a day: http://lifehacker.com/software/application-launcher/

 

[FOBSIDE]

This looks like it will be it. I will let you know.

 

[FOBSIDE]

RunMe is perfect! Let's hope it doesn't crash my computer. Thank you so much.

 

[nova2]

i use typeandrun by galan but i'm not sure it would be acceptable to you

http://www.google.com/search?&q=typeandrun

 

[FOBSIDE]

Yeah, it would work well for launching unique named items like applications, but a lot of my folders and files have similar names. RunMe works well for that.

 

[nova2]

well, if typeandrun didn't have autocomplete i might go insane

as for all my apps, i prefix them with a .
.firefox (or .ff)
.thunderbird (or .tb)

"move excuted alias to first position of config" is useful as it'll autocomplete what you last typed quicker.

 

[cheapherk]

My favorite- TurboLaunch. Liked it so much. that I bought it. Works in Vista too,