Hi,
Try to get a datasheet for everything, name pdf in logical, categorical way before putting actual part name number. Bins and small boxes - make finding components 'fun' and quicker by making mental associations with what's adjacent or in same box or what else is in that cupboard, etc. Writing out a list of passive and/or other components is also useful, later good for jogging memory, but takes a bit of time. Excel sounds a pretty efficient, painless method, all things considered. Not much choice...