Renaming using folder structure hierarchy means automatically generating new filenames based on the names of the folders containing a file. Instead of manually renaming each file, scripts, batch tools, or specific software pull the names of parent folders (and potentially subfolders) and combine them into a new filename. For instance, a file deep within folders named ProjectA/ClientB/MeetingNotes could be renamed to ProjectA_ClientB_MeetingNotes_originalfilename.ext. This approach leverages the organization already present in the folders to systematically define new names.

This technique is commonly used for organizing large collections of digital photos, where images imported from a camera might be renamed using the top-level folder (e.g., Vacation_2024) and date-based subfolders. Scientific researchers analyzing datasets often employ scripts (Python, Bash) or specialized batch renaming software to incorporate experiment identifiers, subject IDs, and trial numbers from the folder structure directly into the filenames, ensuring traceability. Digital asset management systems frequently use similar automated workflows.

The main advantage is massive time savings and ensured consistency when renaming large numbers of files systematically organized in folders. Key limitations are its dependence on consistent folder naming for useful results and potential inflexibility if the required output format deviates significantly from the folder hierarchy. Care must be taken to avoid creating overly long filenames or losing the original filename entirely if not preserved within the new structure. Future development focuses on tools offering more flexibility in how hierarchy levels are combined and filtered during renaming.