PDMWorks for the solo user?

I’m the only SolidWorks user in the company and, up until now, haven’t been using PDMWorks. Part of the reason is I don’t trust our server. We’re a small company and the server’s stability worries me. Presently, I have everything on my computer, with a backup on an external hard drive. The only things I put on the server are pdf’s of completed drawings.
I’ve been contemplating creating a vault on my hard drive, with a backup on the external drive, for a while now. The thing is, I’m just not convinced it’s the way to go. I’ve used PDM plenty of times, and think I’m pretty well versed in the positives in a multi-user environment, but I just can’t quite wrap my head around using it solo. Yes, I’ve heard the “what if the company grows” argument, but it just isn’t enough to get me to make the switch.
Are you using PDMWorks in a solo environment? If so, why? How do you feel it enhances your work flow? If you’re not using it, why not? Curious minds want to know.

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December 15, 2009 · Posted in Personal, SolidWorks Community, SolidWorks Tips

Comments

Christine Longwell

I'm a big fan of PDMWorkgroup for small companies. I really preach that it's the way to go, and I do use it myself... on occasion. My business has evolved more towards process consulting, but I would really use it if I was going to be producing documents.

Personally, I make a lot of junk files that I delete on a regular basis. I think the big question is, Do you release drawings? If the answer is yes, I would suggest working locally the way you have always done, but replace your habit of saving a pdf to the server with checking into the vault when your done. With only one user administration will be simple, and even the crappiest server won't cramp your style. Heck, you could even throw it all into one project folder.

It can also be nice to have a shortcut to your data on the task pane.

Brian

Dude, you should be using PDM!

I always tell folks that even if I was working on my own, I would be running at least Workgroup PDM. It makes it so easy to keep everything organized, have your design history, and be able to try out "what if" scenarios without having to worry about copying folders or overwriting work.

I would install it local and just back up the VaultData folder. If the company grows or whatever, it is easily moved to a server.

John Matrishon

My take on PDM WorkGroup is that whether you are a single user or multiple user, you should be using it if you have access to it (SolidWorks Professional or above). Simply stated, there is no way to revision control manualy to the degree that PDM offers. If I was self employeed I'd be working with PDM. Maintaining a vault format is much cleaner than maintaining a directory stucture. Plus, all the notes and history that you can add during the checkin process is so valuable if you have to look back.
What happens if you do a change to a file, and you want to go back? In PDM you can just go back to that revision, simple. I've been using PDM Works/Workgroup since about 1998 and have never looked back. It's so simple and easy to use that you're almost crazy not to use it. Your data is your foundation, and without a good foundation the rest is unstable. Okay, I digress......

I think Jeff you could put the vault on your server (even if it's not the greatest), but as you're working on stuff, you will have it on your hard drive. Of course, file management will be a key component to your sucess. Good luck!

Chris Serran

I was, at one point, in a solo environment at work. Our servers are reliable and backed up every night, so I had no issues with implementing PDMWorks.
It's nice to have an easily accessible place to go to, not to mention the basic revision control, reporting and where used functionality.
We currently now have a SolidWorks user (myself) and 2 Acad Electrical users accessing the vault.

For the my side design business, I don't use PDMWorks. This is mainly because I'm working off a laptop. If I upgrade to a workstation I may implement it. Still undecided on that, I won't worry too much about it until the time comes.

The important part, in my opinion, is to get a file and folder naming scheme in place and adhere to it. This will make converting to a PDM system so much easier.

JeffMirisola

Great points, Chris. What is it about a laptop that makes you not use PDMWorks?

Chris Serran

Hard drive space. It's only got 80gb. While I'm ok with space for now, it could fill up and I'll have to do shuffling to my external drive...once I get it repaired.

John Matrishon

Chris, using PDM Workgroup (Works for us older guys) should have no impact on your laptop.....unless you plan on putting the Vault on the laptop. I'm reading it as you have a stable network and the vault would be located there.

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