The size, number of pockets, sturdiness, and beauty of the fabric all make this a very nice bag to use as a briefcase and/or laptop carrier. I bought it to go to interviews. It looks less utilitarian than my black Timbuktu laptop carrier which has both a briefcase style handle and an adjustible shoulder strap. The price ($25.00) made it a wonderful choice. The only drawbacks for me have to do with the non-adjustable straps, and the heaviness of the bag though I'm sure it is not any heavier than cordura nylon or leather... It would be nice if the straps could be configured (or you could add an optional shoulder strap) so that you could sling it crosswise over your shoulders when you need your hands free. It doesn't always stay on your shoulder unless you keep a hand on it. Also when you carry it in your hands like a handbag, then it drags on the ground. So for long walks to your destination, it could be very bad for your back because there is only one way to carry it -- on your shoulder. So it does not have the ultimate adjustability that my Timbuktu has, but it looks much nicer, making me look less like a student or a bike messenger!