Overview

Data sharing in Civil 3D 2008 can be accomplished with two methods: the data shortcuts reviewed in Chapter 17, or via Vault and Autodesk Data Management Server. Vault brings true project management into play but requires a fair amount of behind-the-scenes machinery. In this chapter, we'll look at the server component of this equation. The Autodesk Data Management Server (ADMS) handles much of the file interaction that data shortcuts require but brings its own set of criteria to the table.

In this chapter, you'll learn to:

• Recommend a basic ADMS and SQL installation methodology

• Create multiple vaults, users, and user groups

• Manage working folders

What Is Vault?

Vault is a document management system initially created by Autodesk for the manufacturing industry. As Civil 3D evolved and a more robust project management tool was required beyond the Data Shortcut mechanism in Civil 3D 2006, the Autodesk developers decided that the concepts and mechanics of Vault could be applied across the board. The adoption of Vault as a platform-wide project management system meant that each product team could take the platform tool and use it to make their product stronger. Autodesk created ADMS to be the solution for all the products. Let's first take a look at how ADMS operates at a high level, and then we'll explore some of the options in the creation of an ADMS server and the database it runs on.