By Joe Dolittle
We normally try to provide answers to how you can accomplish what you want with Outlook. However, sometimes we get questions that just aren't possible to answer using Outlook.
This week, we're showcasing three requests for features that Outlook doesn't make possible. Perhaps these will find their way onto a future-features list at Microsoft and a future version will feature them.
Different windows for follow-ups and calendar entries
Here's the first. Reader Jane Mackenzie asks:
Currently my reminders for follow up emails and calendar entries pop up in one reminder window. The calendar reminders are really important to me and I want them to really stand out. The follow-ups are not so important and I can delay reacting to them for a while. Is there any way to separate the two so I will react differently?
Nope. Outlook won't do that.
Different reminders on different computers
Reader Jim Watts asks:
At the office, on my job, we have a public Outlook calendar and individual calendars. Is it possible to assign certain reminders to show up on individual computers in the office and not others. If so, how can the reminder assignments be changed to show on different monitors from time to time?
Well, you can do a limited amount of rule-bending to trigger only on "this computer," but that won't really work with reminders. So, nope. Outlook won't do that.
Triggering a rule after a message is read
Finally, reader Terry Schroeder asks:
I would like to find a rule that would move my emails to specific folders in my inbox AFTER they have been read. Outlook 2007 does not seem to have a rule that does this.
The reason I need this is because I have an iPhone and when I set a rule that moves them directly into the specific folders, my iPhone does not indicate it is a new email, because it goes into folders. So, if there is a rule that will allow the email to move into the specific folder AFTER I read it, when I am on the road I will at least know I have had an email. Otherwise I do not know there is an email at all.
Nope. Outlook doesn't do that.
So there you go. Three things Outlook doesn't do. Some of these requests would make for interesting Outlook add-ons, so if you're a developer out there looking for a product idea, here you go. Three free ideas.
If you happen to build something based on one of these ideas, let us know and we'll pass it along to OutlookPower readers.
