Thanks, everyone for your responses. To answer and summarize:
Eric, I am using V4 (recently downloaded) but I am not sure this is any less cumbersome than what you describe.
Wendell, Thanks for the f9 hint...that is just the type of shortcut we are hoping for!!
Miranda and Steven, The low dpi suggestion was also helpful. The default was 300x300. I changed it to 100x100 and it reduced file size from by 85% without any noticable dropoff in printed quality. A big savings in storage space.
Specific questions:
1. Miranda mentions the Fujitsu vs Microsoft screen. When we click "Scan" in AC, we get a "Twain drivers (32)" screen which then has the settings for dpi, type of file, etc. Can you tell me which of the two that is? I get the sense you guys are using Scansnap which may change the whole picture.
2. It sounds like you are scanning into a separate folder then dragging the files back to AC. I can do that with my current set-up, but it added more clicks. Does Scansnap change that as well? Sounds like I need that program....
3. Finally, is there a comprehensive list of the shortcuts (like "f9 to imported items" that I can view?
Thanks again..............