Is it possible to setup Mail rules but have them not run? Then run them by clicking a button or something. This would be completely user activated.
Just uncheck the box in the Active column next to the desired rule in the rule list, then to run them manually, select some messages and choose Message -> Apply Rules. I think that'll do it.
Hmm, I just tested, and you're right, if it's not active, it won't work either automatically or manually. That's rather unhelpful.
I guess, then, the only other option would be to use an AppleScript or Automator script to do the job for you. That's a bit more difficult, though, and I'm not very knowledgable in that area. You may want to re-post with a new subject relating to doing this with AppleScript. Most likely someone can bang you out a quick script to do what you want.
I tried this but nothing happens. My rules are simple:
if from ****
move message to folder ****
How to run Mail rules on demand
