File name or Filename?

[Sherri Hall <shall -at- HILCO -dot- COM>]

> Is the "name of a file" one word (filename) or two words (file name)?
> If both can be used, is there a "rule?"

The number of questions of this nature point to the
fact that language, especially language relating to technology, is
constantly evolving.  To suggest there are rules
about language (not grammar) that apply 100% of the time (or even close) is to
have one's head in the sand.  Now I'm as big of a grammar geek as the
next tech writer and I'll probably defend most grammar rules to my death,
but to attempt to standardize names and spellings when technology and
audience sophistication is constantly evolving seems pointless to me.  Even
publishers of computer dictionaries don't agree and often they contradict.

I've been in the business 10 years and I've seen LOTS of language
 transformations regarding naming and spelling conventions.

Bottomline:  Pick a name and spelling that's most consistent for the
company/industry you're writing for and stick with it.  Chances are what
you attempt to standardize today will be obsolete tomorrow.
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Sherri Hall, Product Manager-Documentation      Email:  shall -at- hilco -dot- com
     "It is common sense to take a method and try it. If it fails,
     admit it frankly and try another. But above all, try something." F.D.R.
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