They are effective only when used in the right circumstance. File labels Labels are used to facilitate identification of a folder and its contents. Visibility on the folder and use as a visual retrieval aid should be major considerations when choosing labels. Color coding Color coding is a method of identifying file folders within a filing system. Color, when used appropriately, can make misfiles visible at a glance, facilitate retrieval, and facilitate weeding and purging.
Color is used as a visual aid to highlight a record series or the date.
It can also be used to highlight a specific folder e.g., vital records. Color coded filing supplies include hanging folders, hanging folder tabs, manila and press board folders, color bar name labels, color code alphabetic and numeric labels, solid color labels.