Hey team,
First off, I want to say how much I appreciate the flexibility and power Obsidian offers. There’s one enhancement that I believe could make the experience even better for many users: the ability to separate the technical filename from the display name.
The Issue
Obsidian allows users to configure filenames, and many of us choose to include a timestamp (e.g., YYYYMMDDHHmmss) for better sorting and searching. While this feature is incredibly useful for organization, it does introduce visual clutter. The long filenames can make the interface look busy, especially in tabs, the sidebar, and when navigating through files.
The Request
I propose an option to set a display name for files that’s separate from the technical filename. Here’s how it could work:
- Keep the Technical Filename: Users can still configure filenames to include timestamps or other data as they prefer for organizational purposes.
- Add a Display Name: Allow users to set a display name that appears in the tabs, sidebar, and other visual elements. This display name should be editable and independent of the technical filename.
Benefits
- Cleaner Interface: Display names without the timestamp would make the UI look more organized and less cluttered.
- Improved Usability: Users can navigate and identify files more easily without the distraction of technical details.
- Enhanced Productivity: A streamlined interface can lead to faster file access and a smoother workflow, similar to systems like Apple Notes and Notion.
Example
For instance, a file named 20240805123045-Project-Plan.md could have a display name set to Project Plan. This display name would be shown in the tabs and sidebar, while the actual filename remains unchanged for organizational purposes.
Thanks for considering this feature! I think it would provide the best of both worlds, maintaining the powerful sorting and searching capabilities while offering a cleaner, more user-friendly interface.