10.6: Open generic files in a preferred app via Services

Often I need to edit text files that don't have any associated application. This usually occurs when I'm changing system configuration files. My original process was to Control-click on a file and then select Open with and then Other, and then search through the application folder for my text editor program. From another site, I learned that it is very easy to create Services with Automator in 10.6. So now I have a one-click process to open any file in my text favorite text editor.

Run Automator and choose the Service template. At the top right, change the drop-downs to read Service receives selected files or folders in any application. On the left, click Files & Folders in the Library column, then drag Open Finder Items (in the next column) into the work area on the right.

Change the Open With drop-down to your fa...