Offline access is useful only when the team can identify the approved revision, understand what changed and reconcile the device after it reconnects.
Keep approval separate from IT
This guide covers device and file-handling controls. The project authority, designer or engineer decides which drawing is approved for work. North Star does not approve drawings, interpret engineering changes or provide jobsite-safety instructions.
1. Name the source of truth
Record the platform, project, folder or sheet set, approval owner and the revision label the crew should expect. Do not use a filename alone if the platform exposes revision history or status. Write down the person who can confirm a disputed revision.
2. Download a defined field set
Choose only the files and sheets the crew needs for the planned work. Autodesk's project download guidance describes offline work on downloaded project data; the exact tools, permissions and settings depend on the project and subscription. Record the download date, device and revision shown.
3. Verify before leaving connectivity
- Open the approved drawing on the actual tablet used in the field.
- Confirm the revision or version label against the project record.
- Check that required references, markups and attachments are available.
- Test the workflow with connectivity unavailable.
- Record what cannot be viewed or edited offline.
Autodesk documents that downloaded files can be available offline and that download options may be refined; it also notes that the latest version can download when configured. Review sync and download behaviour for the current product workflow.
4. Use a revision check card
| Check | Record | Owner |
|---|---|---|
| Approved source | Project, folder and approval reference | Project authority |
| Device download | Tablet ID, date and displayed revision | Site technology owner |
| Offline test | Files opened and limitations | Site supervisor |
| Reconnection | Sync result and conflicts | Assigned reviewer |
5. Reconcile after the connection returns
When the tablet reconnects, check whether newer files are available before uploading markups or field notes. Record conflicts and route them to the project authority. Do not overwrite a current drawing to make a local file appear clean. A sync indicator is evidence about the application state, not approval of a construction change.
6. Retire stale local copies
Once the approved field set changes, remove or clearly label obsolete local copies according to the operator's process. Keep required project records in the approved system. If a device is shared, include its custodian and access review in the handoff record.
Need help with construction field technology?
North Star can scope device, access, download and reconciliation checks for construction workflows. Work is delivered remotely across Canada, with physical work scoped honestly from Prince George and Grande Prairie when required. See construction IT services, project file closeout guidance or request a scoped assessment.