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Ignore Permissions in Previous States and When to use it

In SOLIDWORKS PDM, workflow states control how files move through your process, such as Design, Review, Release, Obsolete, etc. Each state can apply specific permissions for users or groups to control who can read, write, or transition files. By default, permissions in a workflow state are cumulative, which means if a user had access to perform an action in a previous state, then they still retain it in the next state unless explicitly restricted. 

 

By default, this behavior can cause users or groups to unexpectedly lose permissions in a given state. For example, a user might be unable to move a file even though the Move File permission is assigned in that state. In such cases, the file may have inherited restrictions from a previous state, which override the current state’s permissions and prevent the user from performing the action. 

 

The “Ignore permissions in previous states” checkbox/option changes this behavior. When enabled, the state’s permissions are evaluated independently, ignoring any carried-over access rights from earlier states. 

 

NOTE: This option applies to all users and groups of the state. It cannot be assigned to a specific user or group. 

Viewing ignore permission in previous states selection in released properties popup

What It Does:

Unchecked (default): Permissions are cumulative. Users inherit access from all earlier workflow states, plus any permission granted in the current state. 

 

Checked (ignore permissions): Only the permissions set directly on the current state apply. Previous state permissions are disregarded. 

When Would You Use It?

For example, a user or group has ‘Read file contents’ permission for a file in the ‘Released’ state but does not have that same permission in the ‘Design’ state. This can result in the user or group not being able to view files that passed through the ‘Design’ state, since the file inherited the lack of ‘Read file contents’ permission. 

Viewing released properties popup showing permissions to read file contents

Turning on the ‘Ignore permissions in previous states’ will reset the permissions as the file enters the state, applying only the permissions set in that particular state. 

Viewing ignore permissions in previous states selection

Tightening security between states

In the Design state, engineers can read, check out, and modify files. When the file moves to Pending Review, you want engineers to lose modification rights so reviewers can assess without risk of edits. By checking Ignore permissions in previous states, engineers only get the restricted permissions defined in the Pending Review state. 

Creating “clean break” transitions

Some workflows require a separation of responsibility. For example: 

      • Engineers own the Design state. 
      • Managers own the Released state. 

 

If the default cumulative permissions are left on, engineers may still retain delete or check out rights in Released. Enabling Ignore permissions in previous states ensures the Released state reflects only manager access as assigned in that state. 

Reducing complexity in state design

The option simplifies administration. Instead of having to strip away each inherited permission manually for each user or group, you can enable this setting once and then define exact permissions you want for that state.  

When Not to Use It

If your workflow is designed to progressively add permissions as files mature, starting with read-only in one state, then adding check out and other permissions as it transitions through other states to release. 

Summary

The “Ignore permissions in previous states” option in SOLIDWORKS PDM allows administrators to reset user and group permissions at a workflow state. It’s ideal when you want to prevent inherited permissions from being carried forward, enforce security, or create clear ownership between workflow states. 

 

      • Enable when you need struct control in each state. 
      • Disabled (default) when you want a cumulative, layered approach to permissions.  

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Last Updated On
byRick Braine
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