Approvals

[sbmathias]

How have others "signed" drawing approvals? PDM Works might be my answer here, but I'm not using it yet.

I'm currently using properties to insert approval initials on the drawing, but that is useless for validation of approvals - it is only good to find out who messed something up.

 

[wgchere]

In the next few weeks we will go "paperless" and the signatures will be the password protected approvals on Agile as the item goes through CRB. We will stop using the drawing format approvals boxes all together, except for the drafter name and date. Because each item has a file in Agile this is a secure way to go about it. each Agile file will have a pdf file attached to it as an unalterable record of the drawing, while the SolidWorks models and drawings are stored in PDMWorks. We will also store all AutoCAD drawings, Word files (specs, etc.), as attachments in the Agile file.

 

[BSMECAD]

sbmathias,

I have done what you suggested by inserting approved initials on to the drawings. Nothing entirely wrong with this approach. However I believe little value is added if the number of signatures is over two.
Really the heart of the question you asked deals with workflow management and electronic signatures.
In the real world most of these decision are company policy issues. PDMWorks is an excellent tool for workgroup data managment however at the present time lacks any large scale approval process capabilities. Some more expensive solutions include Agile, Smarteam, and other solution.
The bottom line better solutions cost more and take longer to implement but could result in higher quality.

 

[ctopher]

For now, our military customers require real signatures.
Someday it can be accepted electronically.

Chris
Sr. Mechanical Designer, CAD
SolidWorks 05 SP3.1 / PDMWorks 05
ctopher's home site (updated 06-21-05)
FAQ559-1100
FAQ559-716

 

[rporter]

We are looking at using E-drawings markup for this. Each one will have a mark up area to sign off in. Still working on the struchure though. Might use the web portal for those that do not have SolidWorks.