S4 FAQ

Session 4: Virtual In-Tray & Terminals

Why is my In-tray now Virtual?
ANSWER: Your new ‘tray’ is meant to be Virtual. The primary reason for this is that incoming information is immediately removed from your Virtual In-Tray and quickly and immediately and easily placed in one of the Seven Terminals.

Are you suggesting that I stop my work every time I receive something in my Virtual In-Tray?
ANSWER: Yes, unless your current project is of an urgent and/or time critical nature. If your current work is not critical, then YES, stop and address each item as it enters your Virtual In-Tray. By doing so you are continually controlling your work flow, keeping all tasks appropriately prioritized and eliminating the stress of not knowing what is sitting unaddressed in your Virtual In-Tray.

Are you telling me that everything that comes to me fits in one of the Seven Terminals?
ANSWER: Yes. I invite you to test it. Choose some examples of items you customarily receive and then look at the terminals on your Virtual In-Tray to see where they would go. In thirty-five years, and over 100,000 participants, no one has ever found the need for an eighth terminal. As you integrate this Program into your professional and personal life I guarantee that you will find this to be true.

Is the process of moving information out of the Virtual In-Tray different if it is not a Turtle?
ANSWER: No. Examine the item and make a determination which terminal it belongs. (Look at your Virtual In-Tray diagram if you need assistance in determining where this item belongs.)

What is the definition of a ‘Home’ file?
ANSWER: A Home file is a permanent location to house information that you need to retain. This location can be either electronically held or paper-based.

How can I rapidly process my incoming reading (journals and magazines)?
ANSWER: Review the ‘Table of Contents’ for articles and information that are material to you at this time or possibly in the future. Clip out these articles and place them, IN PRIORITY, in your Reading Terminal.