How to Create Technical Data Packages in CoLab
CoLab Team
October 29, 2024
3
min read
What is a Technical Data Package?
A Technical Data Package is a comprehensive collection of documents and files that contain all the information required to define and support the production, assembly, and maintenance of a product. It typically includes engineering drawings, CAD models, specifications, Bills of Materials (BOMs), quality assurance documentation, and packaging instructions.
In CoLab, TDPs can be organized into "Packages," making it easier for teams to collaborate, review, and manage complex product information in one place.
Creating a Package in CoLab
Users have several options for creating packages.
Option 1: Creating an empty package from drive
An empty package can be created directly from within Drive by simply selecting + New and Create a Package. You will be prompted to name the package upon creation.
Click + Add File(s) to add file(s) to your package. 2D and 3D files can be included in a Package. You can also rename the Package .
Select file(s) from Drive or upload new files and click Add.
Option 2: Multi-select files in Drive
A Package can also be created by multi-selecting files in Drive, right-clicking, and selecting Create Package. The created Package will contain the selected files. You will be prompted to name the package upon creation.
As in Option 1, additional files can be added to the Package by selecting + Add files and either selecting existing files from Drive to add, or uploading new files.
Option 3: Create an empty package from the Packages tab
Packages now have a new home under the Packages tab, found directly under Drive in the navigation bar. It will show a flat list of all created Packages, along with their names and number of files they contain. An empty Package can be created by selecting + New. You will be prompted to name the package upon creation.
Similarly to Option 1, to add files to the empty Package, select + Add files and either select existing files from Drive to add, or upload new files.
Best Practices for Creating a Technical Data Package
- Organize Files Clearly: When adding files to your Package, organize them in a logical order that reflects the workflow of your project. Consider grouping related documents, such as CAD models with their associated engineering drawings and specifications.
- Include All Necessary Information: A complete TDP should include not only design files but also Bills of Materials, specifications, and quality assurance documents to ensure comprehensive coverage.
- Collaborate Early and Often: Use CoLab's collaboration tools to invite team members or stakeholders to review your Package. This way, feedback is collected earlier in the process, minimizing rework.
Reviewing and Sharing Your Technical Data Package
Once your Package is created, CoLab’s platform makes it easy to share and collaborate on your TDP. Use the Reviews feature to get feedback from colleagues and stakeholders. By centralizing reviews directly within CoLab, you can track comments, changes, and approvals—all in one place.
Packages can also be shared securely with external partners, such as suppliers or clients, ensuring that everyone is working with the latest information without having to manage complex email chains or file transfers.
See how CoLab simplifies Technical Data Packages in the product tour below.