Alnoor Jiwani writes:

Regarding using the new Search Folders feature, I would like for the query to run automatically on some folders when I start Outlook. Currently, it seems the query itself does not execute until you click on that folder.

Search Folders is a new feature of Outlook 2003. It's quite useful, as it can be set up to do searches automatically based on criteria you customize, or by using one of the numerous templates provided. The results of the searches are then easily accessible in the Search folder.

This function is very useful if you're continually doing searches for specific criteria. However, as Alnoor has noticed, even though the search is automatic, it doesn't initiate until the folder is selected.

Based on some research on this topic, and dialogue with some of Microsoft Outlook's MVPs on discussion boards, there sadly doesn't seem to be an option to have the search run automatically when Outlook starts up. This seems to be a great opportunity for an Outlook add-in. All you enterprising developers out there, listen up: here's a nice little opportunity for you. We know of at least one person who really wants this feature! And, of course, if you know of a way to make this work, let us know.

Francine Otterson is the President of the San Diego Outlook User Group and a Microsoft Outlook MVP. She has been in the IT industry for over 10 years, providing technical support, software customization solutions and training in corporate settings, and as a consultant. She balances her work around her daughter and husband in sunny San Diego, California.