Fix my Google Drive File mess

[GriffAdmin]

Can anyone suggest an easy way to manage Google Drive files.

Ever since they changed to shortcuts, my filing is a mess. To do a partial fix I transferred most non-AppSheet files to OneDrive and cancelled my subscription to additional data. However I still have apps within shortuts and duplicate short cuts etc. I've tried deleting shortcuts with duplicate names but Google just recreates them. It's real mess and whenever I try to link a data source to an existing app I need to go hunting because the path names are irrelevant.

I know part of the mess is due to the ownership and sharing I have in place. My files are owned by multiple owners and shared among many. I am looking for a way to start my filing structure again without messing up my apps. Any suggestions appreciated

[rmsmeltz]

@GriffAdmin 

One way to manage your Google Drive files more easily is to create a consistent and organized folder structure that works for your needs. This can help you keep track of your files and easily locate them when needed.

To do this, start by creating a main folder for your Google Drive files and then create subfolders for different categories of files. For example, you might have subfolders for work-related files, personal files, AppSheet files, and so on. Be sure to name your folders in a clear and descriptive way so that you can easily understand what they contain.

Once you have your folder structure in place, you can begin moving your files into the appropriate folders. To avoid creating duplicate shortcuts, be sure to move the actual file and not just the shortcut. You can also try removing any duplicate shortcuts and then creating a new shortcut from the original file to avoid any confusion.

In addition to organizing your files into folders, you can also use Google Drive's search and filter tools to quickly locate specific files. You can search for files by name, type, owner, and more. You can also use filters to show only files that meet specific criteria, such as files that have been modified recently or files that have been shared with a specific person.

Finally, if you're still having trouble managing your Google Drive files, consider using a third-party tool that can help you organize and manage your files more effectively. There are many tools available that offer features such as advanced search, automated file organization, and more. Some popular options include Google Drive File Stream, Dropbox, and OneDrive.

[GriffAdmin]

Thanks for your suggestions rmsmeltz 

I have already changed most of my filing to an easier to manage alternative, OneDrive, and that is working well and has removed much of the frustration and mess that was created when Google introduced their change and corrupted hundreds of files for me. 

My remaining concern with Google Drive is that even when I delete a shortcut, Google will often re-create it and I don't understand why.

I work with 5 different AppSheet accounts, with a mix of sharing arrangements. I have ended up with an appaheet folder, and an appsheet(1) folder. Each contians a data sub folder and within that are folders for each of my apps, including shortcuts. Becasue I created many of these apps while Google was making its changes and my files were filled with countless permutations of files and shortcuts, I don't know if I linked my apps to shortcuts to data or the actual files and I am uncertain about the wisdom of deleting shortcuts in case my production apps lose links to data. If I linked an app to a shortcut instead of the actual file, and I delete that shortcut to tidy up my file structure, will it break the link in the app?