Solidworks PDM Use

When using PDM there are some rules you need to follow to ensure it goes smoothly:

Save all files in PDM to begin with, do not create them locally and move them over.
Ensure all files in PDM are saved in an appropriate location. If you are unsure where a file should go, contact your PM or lead before saving.
Ensure all files are named according to the naming convention in the CAD Guidelines.
Ensure all CAD complies with the CAD Guidelines.
Make sure files are checked in when you are not using them, no one else can access them when you have them checked out.
If you need to open a file but don’t need to edit it, you can open it without checking it out, just click cancel when it asks to check out.
If you have edited a file that you’ve checked out but want to discard your changes, right-click the file and select “undo checkout”. Note that this will restore the file to the state it was in when you checked it out.

Note that failing to follow rule 5 for an extended period of time will result in you losing access to PDM (we need to change your password) and will cause your file to be forced “undo checkout”, meaning you will lose any changes made since the file was checked out. If you are unsure what files you have checked out, you can go to complete search → Checked in/out and then type in your username to see all files you have checked out.