Copyright

[Anonymous]

Hi all

I am using Autocad 2017LT i work for an Electrical Contractors and i am the drawing coordinator. Now we tned to only send PDF's of our drawings to clients but every now and then we are asked to send over the DWG. Just wondeirng if there is a way to lock the drawing so it is non editable if sent as a DWG?

Thanks 

Joe

[RobDraw · Accepted solution]

You can probably do it, but why?

You are working in a collaborative environment where sharing information is important.

This question has been asked and discussed many times over many years. The concensus is that it is not worth the effort. If you are worried about someone using your content for there own projects, don't worry. Your content probably is something that can be recreated. If you are worried about them making changes and for use on the project, then you should not share dwgs with them and stop working with those people. 

[pendean · Accepted solution]

Think about it: if they want your DWG file, why would they accept a locked one? They could just paste your PDF in and be done with it.

Pick up and phone and you two chat about it: have your contract between you two out and read the section about sharing DWG files. Not in there? Maybe you'll think to add it next contract agreement. Good luck.

[john.vellek · Accepted solution]

Hi @Anonymous,

I totally agree with @pendean and @RobDraw that if you are sharing drawings or others files it is because you are in a collaborative situation that requires trust. I would verify that if the drawing(s) gets re-released that there is notation indicating such.  Also, make sure the originator of the drawing has given you the license/authority to share the drawing on their behalf.  I would imagine that most drawings are copyrighted (and should be)  to protect against illegal use and liability.

Please hit the Accept as Solution button if my post fully solves your issue or answers your question.

[john.vellek]

Good morning joe,

I am checking back to see if my post helped you with your problem. Please add a post with your results so other Forum users can benefit.

Please hit the Accept as Solution button if my post fully solves your issue or answers your question.

[Anonymous]

That thread cleared it up alot but i have not got around to trying out how to use them as soon as i do i will post my results.