Where to store PDF files using the new X17 Projects feature

[Randino3]

While most files are stored in the Project folder, I don't see how to add a Layout exported pdf file to the project. Is it possible to add a pdf to a project? If so, how would one do this? Thanks in advance! BTW, I'm using Chief Architect X17 on the Mac. 

[SHCanada2]

I think many of us concluded that the most efficient way to use the new PM mode is to have a hard drive directory structure like we did before. For a couple reasons. 1. If you need to email these layout exported PDFs, then you need to attach them to the email. If they went directly into PM, then you would need to export from PM mode to "somewhere" and then attach it to your email. So more steps, 2. other documents or information which are relevant to the project, but not really relevant to the drawings need to go somewhere. Sometimes I get photos video, etc sent to me. I need some place to store them, so might as well be the hard drive directory structure like I had before X17

[Randino3]

That makes a LOT of sense. I just thought that Projects was going to allow us to collect everything - but alas, that isn't so. So I may follow your example and go back to the old way. If it ain't broke...

Re-reading your reply, for which I am very grateful, you may be saying that you use a hybrid file system - both Projects (PM) and keeping other notes, photos, PDFs, etc. in another folder dedicated to the particular project. Is that correct?

[SHCanada2]

1 hour ago, Randino3 said:

Re-reading your reply, for which I am very grateful, you may be saying that you use a hybrid file system - both Projects (PM) and keeping other notes, photos, PDFs, etc. in another folder dedicated to the particular project. Is that correct?

exactly. For instance I get a survey on the email from the customer, I download it to \documents\CA\customer - addresss\

 

I then import that into my plan because I superimpose my building on it. But videos, pictures, old plans, other docs, I download to the above but dont import into CA's "project". Then when I print(save as PDF) my layout, I save to the above directory, and then when I email, I just drag and drop from that directory to my email.

 

The PM mode is great for keeping all the versions of layouts, and plan files right there in the side pane project browser

 

 

 

[ClintonM]

5 hours ago, Randino3 said:

Is it possible to add a pdf to a project?

You can add most any type of file to a Project by right-clicking on the Project and selecting 'Import File(s)...'.  As @SH_Canadaadded, depending on your workflow, it may not be optimal to store derivative files within the Project--especially if they need to be shared with people who don't use Chief Architect.  However, it is possible  I would suggest trying both methods to see what better fits your workflow.

[Randino3]

Thanks! Great tip. And yes, I do have to send PDFs to my contractor, so keeping those outside PM may be the best. Thanks again.