2 offices share drive

[COEngineeer]

We have 2 offices and we would like to have a web drive where we can put all of our AutoCad typical details to share on both offices. We started with the same folders and we copy the folder to the other office. Now both offices are so different because both offices edit and add stuff constantly. Could you guys help me with what my options are? I want both offices to use the same folder so when we change something, it will effect everyone (i.e. plot style, typical details etc. So even though we have 2 offices, it will feel like we are in the same office. Can someone point me to the right direction?

Never, but never question engineer's judgement

 

[COEngineeer]

also I want the drive to act like a regular drive (like saving something to your local drive). When I worked for a big firm, they had a share drive like what I am talking about.

Never, but never question engineer's judgement

 

[zdas04]

The way the big companies do this is with an "intranet". That requires some serious web-hosting horsepower and some big-time IT support.

You can just build a secure area on your web page and do drawing management out of that (check-out/check-in protocols and someone to manage it). Other than that, the price seems to go whay up really quickly.

David

 

[ajack1]

Not exactly what you are asking for but would a ftp site not work?

 

[COEngineeer]

we have a ftp site but you cant map it (so you have a drive symbol like z because it is in "my network". So we cant save something or edit something directly to that folder.

Never, but never question engineer's judgement

 

[MacGyverS2000]

Consider adding in some form of versioning system, as well... that will cut down on two "supposed to be similar" files from branching off with multiple edits.

Dan - Owner

http://www.Hi-TecDesigns.com

 

[GregLocock]

What's wrong with setting a folder up on one computer as shared folder over the network?

You can then map it to a drive letter if that is your thing.



Cheers

Greg Locock

Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips.

 

[geekEE]

Try looking at virtual private networks (VPN).

 

[MacGyverS2000]

When the OP said "2 offices" I'm assuming he means in different locations, something not conducive to a LAN.

Dan - Owner

http://www.Hi-TecDesigns.com

 

[CorBlimeyLimey]

Maybe try something like this;

http://www.laplink.com/sharedirect/

 

[COEngineeer]

I found this software

http://www.southrivertech.com/index.html

The webdrive seems to do exactly what we want. I downloaded the trial version.

Never, but never question engineer's judgement

 

[bvanhiel]

A second vote for VPN. We don't have separate offices, but we frequently work from home. A VPN allows you to log into the server at the office using an internet connection. It then behaves just like you were plugged into the LAN, but slower.

-b

 

[COEngineeer]

vpn is different though. I want people to work on local puter but able to use 1 shared folder. I dont want remote connection.

Never, but never question engineer's judgement

 

[geekEE]

You don't want a remote connection to your LAN? Are your two offices in different locations? Then a VPN sounds like it would fit your needs. If your two offices are in the same location, then I don't understand the issue.

By the way, I have seen services that offer web storage (

http://www.xdrive.com).

I never tried them, but maybe that would fit your needs.

 

[TravisMack]

Would something like this work?

http://www.wdc.com/en/products/products.asp?driveid=340&language=en

 

[COEngineeer]

Two offices in different location of course! Travismack, I dont think that will act like a local drive (since it needs a web browser).

Never, but never question engineer's judgement

 

[geekEE]

I still think a VPN is what you are looking for.

http://computer.howstuffworks.com/vpn.htm

 

[flamby]

Bentley hosts a web site

http://viecon.com/en/default.asp

for such needs.

Ciao.