Many corporations use Microsoft SharePoint Server as a means to exchange, manage and collaborate on Office documents in the organization. But because the information repository is geared towards enterprise software, has no effective way to handle AutoCAD engineering data during design projects.

Fortunately, the CADnection program solves this problem by allowing users to insert AutoCAD drawings and reference files into SharePoint managed workflows. CADnection Installation requires experience and Standard IT administrator should take less than a couple of hours to complete. However, it is good to have a director of SharePoint experience available to create new workflow process in SharePoint is installed after CADnection. Once there, works CADnection in AutoCAD, allowing designers a range of tools to manage, store, share, and design data critical control. For example, click the Save button design for SharePoint saves the file in the repository and ensures data integrity to design and build relationships of attributes in the mapping block under design.

CADnection also allows users to activate the search functionality of SharePoint to verify data on the server, retrieve drawings, and even find the text information on the drawings. The program also enables the easy reuse of existing data without losing track of related files. Designers need only insert blocks of design data directly into a new drawing or use the Attach command to create a reference (XREF external) file that appears later in the panel of reference files. In addition, users can generate DWF files to anyone on the team can see drawings inside SharePoint for quick visual identification. (DWF stands for Design Web Format and Autodesk CAD format is light.) CADnection also facilitates the use of Design Review with SharePoint to improve collaboration and multi-stream processing. This function is essential for many companies with dispersed or outsourced operations to design and manufacture.

Despite CADnection many features, the drawback is that the software does not support bulk loading. This means that companies must devote more time and money to process data to and from SharePoint, for example, while the conversion of DWG DWF. In addition, booths loading process with any potential duplication of files. These tasks currently require manual input before treatment. The developer provides immediate telephone support for new clients, current telephone support and free upgrades in the maintenance contract. The software comes with a full digital (PDF) Installation and maintenance. CADnection requires Windows XP and Vista with clients based on Windows Server 2003 and SharePoint Server (MOSS) 2007. The software has CADnection Inc., 1592 North Batavia, Building One, Orange, CA 92867th, (877) 887-7833. The site is www. CADnection. com.