Managing versions and eliminating duplicate files
By the PandaFile team · · 5 min read
Versions and duplicates are the two plagues of a file library. You duplicate "just in case", you rename "final-v2", and you end up no longer knowing which one is the right one or how many copies exist. This article builds on the guide to organizing your design and fabrication files.
Versions: keep track without drowning
The problem is not having several versions, but no longer knowing which one worked. A few simple rules:
- Number or date them rather than piling up "final", "final2"...
- Clearly identify the approved version
- Attach a photo of the result to the right version
- Archive the intermediates instead of deleting them when in doubt
Duplicates: spot them before deleting
Deleting duplicates blindly is risky: two files with the same name can differ, and a single file can be referenced by several projects. What matters is to see the duplicates (same content, same previews) before deciding, rather than relying on the name alone.
Never break a project
A "duplicate" file is sometimes used by a laser project or a CAM job that points to its location. Before cleaning up, check what it is used for. A library that indexes without moving (like PandaFile) helps you spot moved files and duplicates without touching the originals.
The goal isn't to have zero versions, it's to always know which one is the right one.— PandaFile
In practice
Keep one clearly identified approved version, spot duplicates visually, and archive rather than delete when in doubt. See also finding a file quickly and showing the missing previews.
Frequently asked questions
How do I manage the successive versions of a file?
Number or date the versions rather than piling up "final", "final-v2", clearly identify the approved version and attach a photo of the result to it. Archive the intermediates instead of deleting them.
How do I delete duplicates safely?
By spotting them visually (same content, same preview) before deciding, and by checking that no project references the file. A tool that indexes without moving helps you see duplicates without touching the originals.
Can a duplicate file be used by a project?
Yes: a laser project or a CAM job can point to a file's location. Before deleting it, check what it is used for so you don't break an existing project.
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