Desktop GUI
The RDSS Folder Mapper desktop application is designed for researchers who want a simple, point-and-click way to mount their network research storage folders on their computer.
Main window
The main window has three sections:
| Section | Description |
|---|---|
| Status bar | Shows the current state (Ready, Mapping, Error). |
| Map Research Folders | Fetches your approved project list and creates folder shortcuts on your Desktop. |
| Remove Mappings | Removes all previously created folder shortcuts. |
At the bottom, the Activity log toggle reveals a detailed log of every action the tool performs. This is useful for troubleshooting.
Mapping your folders
- Click Map Research Folders.
- A progress bar appears, showing each folder as it is mapped.
- When complete, the bar turns green and the status changes to Folders mapped.
Mapped folders appear in ~/Desktop/RDSS Folders (or your configured base directory) and can be browsed like any regular folder.
Settings
Click the ⚙ (gear) icon in the top-right corner to open the Settings panel.
| Setting | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
| Mappings folder | Where folder shortcuts are created on your computer. | ~/Desktop/RDSS Folders |
| Remote storage path | The network path to your institution's research storage. | Provided by your IT department |
| DMP service URL | The URL of the Data Management Plan service that provides your project list. | Provided by your institution |
| Debug logging | Enables verbose output in the Activity log. | Off |
Click Save settings to persist your changes. Settings are stored locally and remembered between sessions.
Troubleshooting
- "Error — see activity log": Expand the Activity log to see what went wrong. Common causes are network connectivity issues or an expired authentication session.
- Folders not appearing: Ensure the base directory exists. If you changed it in Settings, create the folder manually first.
- macOS security warning on first launch: Right-click the app and choose Open, then confirm.