BreierNotes

The easiest ways to reduce the file size of Illustrator documents that contain linked graphics is to uncheck the option to "Create PDF compatible file" in the "Save As" dialog box.

FastScripts, by Red Sweater Software is how I assign keyboard shortcuts to my scripts. It works just like the standard Script Menu , except it has many improvements. Fast scripts will allow you to assign keyboard shortcuts to your scripts and this works amazingly well! I've assigned keyboard shortcuts to some of my Illustrator scripts and it feels as though they are a native part of the program. It's a much more seamless experience than having to navigate the standard Script Menu. It also provides dialog box messages when your script errors, which is much more useful than the silent treatment that I get from the regular Script menu. It's free to download and it never expires. The only limitation of the free version is that it's limited to 10 keyboard shortcuts, which I feel is generous. The unlimited version is currently $14.95 $9.95 (a $5 reduction since I first wrote this. Updated 10-10-15).

The AppleScript menu is located in the menu bar and will allow you to run a script from any application. The AppleScript menu has to be turned on before you can start using it. The following instructions are for Mac OS 10.6 or later. If you are using Mac OS 10.4 through 10.5 please see the note at the bottom of the post, as the instructions are slightly different.