Supplying documents for Fiancee/Spouse visas over and beyond what the UKBA have asked for

I have been wondering for some time whether or not supplying more information to the UKBA for visas than they ask for actually helps your application.
I would have thought that the case workers are instructed to disregard any information supplied that is not asked for in the application process. I must say I am as guilty as anyone for giving them more than they asked for because it made me feel more secure in thinking my application would be successful.

And another point, would there be cases where supplying too much information could indeed have a derogatory effect on your chances of securing a visa?

So the big question is "is just enough good, or giving them over and above what they ask for better"?

Its a difficult one.

If I was an ECO and I had a lot of these to go through in a day, I would want an application portfolio that was easy to check. With all the key requirements laid out so that they hit the ECO in the eye.

That's what I think too John.

Is it just because it makes us feel more confident of success we bombard them with documents they don't want?

Yes. I understand that.

I thought the birthday card thing was a good example. I was actually convinced in my head it would help and the forum folk had said it would but the agency said don't bother. They would know as they make applications for visas day in day out all year round so they know what works and what doesn't.

Its an interesting one really, in a way maybe there is no right or wrong on this matter, would be better though if everything was clearly defined by the UKBA but I suspect they don't want to make things clear do they

Yes. Both ways seem to work.... as long as the key info is there in the application documents.

If you were an ECO and you had a choice of applications to check, which one would you pick, the big pile or the little pile of paperwork?

It goes without saying really, the big pile of course