AutoCAD file lock monitor for SharePoint
TL;DR
Desktop app for CAD managers and project engineers in engineering/AEC firms that syncs AutoCAD file locks with SharePoint in real time to block conflicts, so they cut file conflict rework by 5+ hours/week and eliminate IT support tickets for corrupted files.
Target Audience
CAD managers and project engineers in engineering/AEC firms (5–500 employees) using AutoCAD + SharePoint/OneDrive for remote collaboration
The Problem
Problem Context
Engineering teams use SharePoint/OneDrive to sync AutoCAD files for remote collaboration. When multiple users edit the same file, SharePoint doesn’t detect AutoCAD’s file locks, causing sync conflicts and corrupted drawings. Manual checks (e.g., asking teammates) fail in WFH setups.
Pain Points
Users get no warning when another person opens an AutoCAD file in SharePoint, leading to overwritten changes. They waste hours resolving conflicts or revert to outdated NAS servers. Checking locally is impractical for distributed teams.
Impact
File conflicts force rework, delay projects, and risk client penalties. Teams lose trust in cloud tools, forcing costly workarounds (e.g., emailing file versions). Downtime from conflicts costs $100+/hour in labor and rework.
Urgency
The problem grows with team size—every new user increases conflict risk. Ignoring it risks project failures, client losses, and IT support overhead. Manual fixes (e.g., NAS) are temporary and limit scalability.
Target Audience
Engineering firms (5–500 employees) using AutoCAD + SharePoint/OneDrive for WFH collaboration. Includes CAD managers, project engineers, and AEC (architecture/engineering/construction) teams. Also affects manufacturers and product design firms.
Proposed AI Solution
Solution Approach
A lightweight desktop app that monitors SharePoint file locks and AutoCAD’s process status in real time. It alerts users when a file is open in AutoCAD (even if SharePoint doesn’t detect it) and blocks sync conflicts before they happen. Works alongside existing tools—no NAS or server needed.
Key Features
- SharePoint Lock Sync: Mirrors AutoCAD’s file locks to SharePoint’s sync system to prevent conflicts.
- Team Alerts: Notifies all users via desktop pop-ups or email when a file is in use.
- Conflict Log: Tracks past conflicts and suggests fixes (e.g., ‘File X was edited by User Y at 2 PM’).
User Experience
Users install the app once. It runs silently in the background, checking SharePoint and AutoCAD every 30 seconds. If someone opens a file in AutoCAD, others see a red lock icon in SharePoint/Explorer. No extra steps—just safe collaboration. Admins get weekly reports on near-misses.
Differentiation
Unlike generic file lockers, this integrates with AutoCAD’s process IDs and SharePoint’s metadata API. It’s lighter than NAS servers, cheaper than IT consultants, and more reliable than manual checks. No admin rights or IT setup required—just install and go.
Scalability
Priced per user ($50–$100/month). Teams add seats as they grow. Enterprise plans include API access for custom alerts (e.g., Slack/Teams integrations). Future features: version control for AutoCAD files, audit logs for compliance.
Expected Impact
Eliminates file conflicts, saving 5+ hours/week per team. Restores trust in SharePoint for AutoCAD work. Reduces IT support tickets and rework costs. Teams can scale WFH without risking project delays.