Overview: Our Markup Export functionality allows you to download .pdf files with annotations included. The goal is to provide field workers and others with the most up-to-date plans and changes, ensuring all necessary information is shared and easily accessible.
You are able to download all annotations except for measurements and comments in this first version.
Learn more in this How To Video:
Steps to Export a File with Annotations
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Locate the File:
Open the file from your Project Files or Company Files in the DigsCloud File Menu, or navigate directly to your project in Digs and open the Files section via the Dynamic Island. -
Activate Layers:
Ensure the layers containing your annotations are active. Only active layers will be included in the export. -
Open the Kabob Menu:
Click the Kabob Menu (three dots) for the file. -
Select Export:
Choose Export from the menu. -
Ensure Annotations Are Included:
In the export options, ensure the Include Annotations toggle is ON. -
Finalize and Export:
Confirm your selections and click Export. The file will download locally with your annotations included.
Benefits of Exporting Files with Annotations
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Improved Communication:
Exporting annotated files ensures that all team members have access to the latest information, reducing the risk of errors and miscommunication in the field. Field workers will always have access to the most up-to-date plans, complete with any necessary changes or notes from the project team. -
Enhanced Flexibility:
You have the ability to customize your exports by selectively including annotations and layers that are relevant to specific team members or tasks. This flexibility helps streamline the project workflow and ensures everyone has what they need. -
Increased Efficiency:
By allowing you to directly download annotated documents, this functionality saves time by eliminating the need to manually add annotations to downloaded files. You can focus on the project at hand rather than worry about updating and distributing multiple versions of plans.
Pro Tips for Exporting Files with Annotations
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Organize Layers Before Exporting:
Plan ahead by organizing your annotations into separate layers for different teams or purposes (e.g., plumbing, electrical, structural). This will allow you to selectively activate and export only the relevant layers, keeping the document focused and clean. Once finalized, export the file as a flattened document and upload it back into Digs for future reference or team collaboration. -
Limit Use of the Base Layer:
The Base Layer should be reserved for modifications or data that are universally important for all teams. Limiting its use to essential information helps ensure that it doesn’t clutter the exported file with unnecessary data. Since the Base Layer cannot be turned off, any annotations added here will appear in every export, which may complicate future exports. Keep it concise and focused on general, overarching information. -
Check for Active Layers Before Exporting:
Always double-check that you have activated the layers you intend to export. Only the active layers will be included in the exported file, so it's important to confirm your selections beforehand to avoid exporting incomplete or incorrect data. -
Exporting Updated Files:
If your file has undergone significant updates, be sure to export the most recent version. If you need to share this updated file, consider re-uploading it to Digs as a new version, ensuring that everyone has access to the most current data.
Additional Information
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Flattening Annotations:
When you export a file with annotations, the layers you activate will be "flattened," meaning the annotations will be permanently added to the file. This allows you to share or print a final version of the document with all the changes, notes, and details clearly visible.
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Have you run into a quality of life improvement that would make Exports better?
We would love to hear your suggestions