File Management

Using File Management

Bimefy's File Management system provides a centralized location for all your project files. Upload BIM models, documents, images, and other project files, then organize them efficiently with version control and easy navigation. Files that need a formal approval process before going out to the client can be routed through Workflows.

1. Accessing File Management

1. Navigate to the File Manager:

• From your project dashboard, under Files & Models in the left-side menu, click File Manager to access the file management interface.
• You'll see the file tree and file browser.

2. Understanding the File Tree:

• Navigate through your project's folder structure.
• Expand and collapse folders to browse files.
• Use the file tree to quickly locate specific files.

2. Uploading Files

1. Single File Upload:

• Click the upload button to select and upload individual files.
• Supported formats include BIM models (IFC, RVT, DWG), PDFs, images, and documents.
• Files are uploaded to the current folder location.

2. Batch Upload:

• Upload multiple files at once for efficiency.
• Drag and drop files directly into the file browser.
• Monitor upload progress for each file.

3. Folder Upload:

• Upload entire folders to maintain directory structure.
• Preserve folder hierarchies from your local system.
• Organize files during upload by selecting target folders.

3. File Organization

1. Creating Folders:

• Create new folders to organize your files.
• Organize files by discipline, phase, or type.
• Create nested folder structures for complex projects.

2. Moving Files:

• Drag and drop files to move them between folders.
• Reorganize files as your project structure evolves.
• Maintain file organization throughout the project lifecycle.

3. File Naming:

• Use consistent naming conventions for files.
• Follow project naming standards and conventions.
• Rename files directly in the file browser.

4. Version Control

1. File Versions:

• Bimefy automatically tracks file versions.
• View version history for any file.
• Compare different versions of the same file.

2. Version Management:

• Upload new versions of existing files.
• Keep previous versions for reference and rollback.
• Access version history to see changes over time.

3. Version Comparison:

• Compare different versions of files side-by-side.
• Identify changes between versions.
• Use version comparison for quality control.

5. Recent Files

1. Recent Files Widget:

• The dashboard shows recently uploaded or changed files.
• Quickly access files you've been working on.
• Track file activity across your projects.

2. File Activity:

• See when files were last modified.
• View who made changes to files.
• Track file access and usage.

6. File Viewing and Preview

1. BIM Model Viewing:

• Open BIM models directly in 3D Views.
• View IFC, RVT, and other BIM formats.
• Compare multiple models side-by-side, or open one in Virtual Reality for a fully immersive view.

2. Document Preview:

• Preview PDFs and documents without downloading.
• View images and photos in the browser.
• Access file previews quickly.

3. File Information:

• View file details including size, type, and upload date.
• See file metadata and properties.
• Check file permissions and access.

7. File Sharing and Collaboration

1. File Permissions:

• Control who can view, edit, or download files.
• Set permissions based on roles and disciplines.
• Manage file access at the folder or file level.

2. File Sharing:

• Share files with team members.
• Generate shareable links for external stakeholders.
• Control sharing permissions and expiration.

3. Collaborative Editing:

• Work on files collaboratively with your team.
• See who is currently viewing or editing files.
• Coordinate file access to avoid conflicts.

8. File Search and Filtering

1. Search Files:

• Search for files by name, type, or content.
• Use advanced search filters to find specific files.
• Save search queries for quick access.

2. File Filtering:

• Filter files by type, date, or owner.
• Show only recently modified files.
• Filter by file status or workflow state.

9. Best Practices for File Management

- Consistent Organization:

• Establish and follow folder structure conventions.
• Organize files logically by discipline, phase, or type.
• Keep folder structures consistent across projects.

- Regular Maintenance:

• Periodically review and clean up unused files.
• Archive completed project files.
• Maintain clear file naming conventions.

- Version Control:

• Upload new versions rather than deleting old ones.
• Use version numbers or dates in file names when appropriate.
• Keep version history for important files.

- Access Control:

• Set appropriate permissions for sensitive files.
• Review file access regularly.
• Ensure team members have access to files they need.