Non-PDM SolidWorks Filing Structure 1

[phlyx]

Our company has just begun using SolidWorks in a production environment and we design and build custom and production machinery. We are looking at the SolidWorks PDM package but until we make a decision there I am trying to put an assembly/part/drawing file structure in place so we don't shoot ourselves in the foot.

What I was proposing was that all fabricated parts reside in one common folder, all drawings reside in another folder (and this fold is shared so shop people can view them), all purchased parts in a common folder organized by vendor, and assemblies reside in a seperate project folder that taps into the other folders for parts.

Any suggestions or hints in this area? I am sure we're not the first to face the fact that non-control has created a mess of duplicate files all over the place... :O(

~ Phlyx ~

 

[StarrRider]

JJCPE

I too like your sandbox analogy. That is what Design is all about – the freedom to experiment and make changes without being tied to a bulky structure. In the last 2 companies I worked at we used the Excel method that EdDanzer mentioned. For fabricated parts and assemblies that you create, you don’t need to define a complex structure to go with it. Just consider it a Log that prevents your people from stepping on each other’s toes. You might want to add a more structured system for purchased parts though. When you get to the point where you have a product ready for production – then you can migrate to a more secure “Gate Keeper” system if you feel the needed – or spend some time to add the needed controls to your system. Many people are surprised to find out how much can actually be done with Excel.

EdDanzer

Unfortunately – both the draftsman and myself are no longer employed there. I know it is not considered Kosher for the dead to speak critically of the living – and I do try to avoid it – but part of the difficulty was my immediate supervisor – the head of engineering. The man was a really good Engineer and when it came to Design – he knew what he was doing. He knew the product line inside and out – which was natural because he was directly responsible for most of it. At times though – he wasn’t exactly aware of how his habits affected others. My nature is to avoid confrontations whenever possible. I tried to be indirect and point out how others MIGHT be doing this or that and the problems that it would create. Every time I did he would agree with me – and then go on doing exactly what I described. Most of the time I try to avoid my suicidal tendencies. While going over his head might have been the correct course – if the stakes were high enough – it didn’t seem to be important enough to risk everything at the time.

Lee

Consciousness: That annoying time between naps.