First year sketching

[nathan_hui]

Kinda depends on the package you're using. With SW, organize things into assemblies and superassemblies. Treat it like a software hierarchy, with commits, versions, and trunk versions. Only one person gets access to the high level superassembly, consisting only of subassemblies and fasteners. Subassemblies should be managed similarly, down to the part level. Recommend one person per low-level subassembly, with managers managing higher-level subassemblies. Establish a naming convention (don't use folders) that show superassembly association. Also establish protocols for commits and changes, and standardize formats (incl. year and naming). With multiple computers, use the pack and go feature in SolidWorks to cleanly put the assembly in a package that can easily be sent.

Also decide on how detailed you want the models. I personally tend to go really detailed and include each individual fastener. Some people ignore the fasteners and rely on the mates to secure the model. Also decide on the drawing and dimensioning standards.

Best of luck to your endeavors in CAD.