3DDrive Versus 3DSpace: Which is Best for 3DExperience File Management?

The 3DExperience platform provides two methods of storing files: 3DDrive and 3DSpace. In this article, we’ll dive into their comparison and show you when to use one over the other.  

What is 3DDrive? 

3DDrive is cloud storage on the 3DExperience platform. It closely resembles apps like Dropbox and Google Drive – users can store, access, edit, and share their files from any device. It allows for native Microsoft documents to be created and edited simultaneously by multiple users. Users can set up their own drive and invite others to collaborate.  

External cloud storage from other services can be combined into 3DDrive, and a plug-in is available to integrate 3DDrive with Windows File Explorer which provides a secure alternative to saving locally.  

What is 3DSpace?  

3DSpace takes traditional cloud storage to the next level of security by requiring access permissions to be set for each individual user. Additionally, 3DSpace integrates data management functions like revision control and maturity levels automatically – it can be compared to a “pre-canned” data vault.  

For example, files can be set as “In Work” or “Released”, and users can be given read-only permission to view “Released” files. “In Work” files can be locked by a user to prevent other edits coming through. By simply uploading files to a collaborative space, users can control their documents and give access to other robust PLM tools on the platform.   

When should I use 3DDrive Versus 3DSpace? 

3DSpace will give you the most functionality for managing files among engineering teams. If your team is ready for Product Lifecycle Management functions like Change Orders and approval processes, 3DSpace is for you. Communicating which files are being actively worked on is done through locks placed by the engineers doing the work. 

The maturity status (e.g. “Released”) will prevent unwanted changes to production parts and build approval structures for new designs. This is a highly scalable solution.  

When you’re ready, files can be attached to other 3DExperience objects like Change Forms (Change Management), Tasks (Project Management), or Issues (Quality Management).  

To access files, you must be a licensed user on the platform. License-holders from other companies are also welcome if invited.  

3DDrive will give you the most flexibility for sharing files with external users. If you’re currently using/considering a solution like Dropbox or Google Drive, and can’t grow into the capabilities of 3DSpace yet, 3DDrive is for you.  

3DDrive does not come with the data management tools provided with 3DSpace, but it does store files traditionally with folder structures. Uncontrolled documents can be edited simultaneously by teammates.  

Sharing files with external users is easy. A link can be generated for each file on the drive, as well as each folder. The link gives permission to preview and download the associated file(s) without having a license. CAD files can be previewed with a free online viewer called 3DPlay where screenshots, drawings, and comments can be added without needing to download anything.  

If you are in the market for true collaboration and data management capabilities, 3DDrive is not that.  

3DSpace is the app that controls your company’s collaborative space and is the central repository for all your product data. It will allow you to grow into more robust PLM processes and connect to apps in the platform in ways that 3DDrive cannot.   

3DDrive Versus 3DSpace Feature Comparison

Have questions about 3DDrive or 3DSpace? Get in touch.

Read more about 3DSpace and 3DDrive permissions and how to optimize your collaboration spaces in these articles: 

• Inviting External Members to the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform: A Comprehensive Guide 

• 3DEXPERIENCE Roles Explained: What Are They in SOLIDWORKS Cloud Services?