The Red File Folder

On a team back in the mid-2000s, rather than using an electronic tool to track software defects, we had a simple red file folder. When an issue was found, a screenshot was taken and printed, reproduction steps were written on the sheet and then it was placed in that red folder which resided in the developers' working area. Often, a sheet didn't even make its way into the folder because a developer would start working on it immediately.

This approach worked incredibly well, even as the team grew to 20 people! It was simple, effective and inexpensive.

You can read the whole Red File Folder story in this blog post from Dave Rooney.

The global pandemic of 2020 changed how we work, with some or all team members working remotely. As a result, it's no longer feasible to use simple physical tools like a file folder.

Meanwhile, existing electronic tools are large, cumbersome and are bloated with features and workflows that you'll never need or use! They're difficult to install and require constant care and feeding, often by an operations group that's already overworked.

Does this sound like your organization? Then read on...

Inspired by the original experience and ideas from the mid-2000s, The Red File Folder is a minimalist defect tracking tool designed for small companies, teams and individuals who value simplicity over complexity. Unlike other complex platforms, which can overwhelm users with intricate workflows and a steep learning curve, The Red File Folder offers a simple interface that focuses on what truly matters: quickly identifying, tracking, and resolving software defects.

At the heart of The Red File Folder is a key principle: you should never have more than a few defects left unfixed. This tool is designed to help you stay on top of those issues, ensuring that bugs don’t pile up and become overwhelming.

With The Red File Folder, you’ll always have a clear, concise view of the small number of critical issues that require your attention, allowing your focus to remain where it belongs.

Here's what The Red File Folder has to offer you:

If you're tired of spending more time managing your tools than managing your work, The Red File Folder is your solution. It’s the antithesis of complex, feature-heavy platforms — a tool that just works, keeping your defect count low so you can focus on what you do best: building great software!

The initial version of The Red File Folder is coming soon and we're seeking organizations and individuals with whom our story resonates. Are you interested in helping to shape the product and simplify your already overly complex workflow?

Come over to our Red File Folder Demo site and play around with the tool. If you like what you see, please register below for updates and you'll be the first to know when it's ready!