P3 File Bank

The P3 File Bank, what it is, where it is and what it does.

Overview

The P3 File Bank is a centralized repository for storing, organizing, and accessing all files associated with your Jobs and Projects in P3Source. It simplifies file management, ensures accessibility, and leverages Amazon Web Services (AWS) for secure and reliable storage.

Key Benefits:

  • Convenience: Easily locate files associated with any Job or Project without hunting through old records.
  • Security: Files are encrypted and stored securely using AWS S3 technology.
  • Persistence: Files remain available as long as your P3Source account is active.
  • Cost Efficiency: A cost-effective alternative to managing your own servers or other cloud storage solutions.
  • Reliability: High availability and performance backed by AWS's best-in-class infrastructure.

How It Works

Sources of Files:

  1. P3Source System:

    • Files attached to P3Source emails.
    • Files manually uploaded to the File Bank.
    • Files copied from other Jobs or Projects.
    • Supplier invoices uploaded through the Job Cost panel.

  2. P3Connect Supplier Portal:

    • Files submitted with RFQ responses.
    • Shipment documents uploaded during order fulfillment.

  3. P3Connect Customer Portal:

    • Files provided with new project requests.
    • Documents submitted in response to Project Proposals.
    • Files exchanged through P3Connect emails.

Using the File Bank

File Bank List Panel:

Displays all files linked to the currently selected Job or Project, as well as related entities. Key columns include:

  • Attached To: Indicates the associated entity.
  • Name: File name.
  • Size: File size.
  • Date Added: Date the file was uploaded.
  • Download Count: Number of times the file has been downloaded.

The File Summary Panel (below the list) provides additional details about the selected file and allows you to:

  • View: Download and open the file directly.
  • Save As: Choose where to save the file locally.
  • Comment: Add remarks about the file.
  • Remove: Delete the file from the File Bank.

Uploading Files:

  1. Click the Upload/Add button.
  2. Use the file browser to select a file.
  3. Click Select File to upload.

Downloading Files:

  • View: Double-click a file to download it to a temporary location and open it.
  • Save As: Click Save As, select a local destination, and download.

Copying Files from Another Job/Project:

  1. Click Copy Files From... to open the search dialog.
  2. Search for and select the desired Job or Project.
  3. Highlight the files you wish to copy and confirm.

Security and Storage

  • Files are encrypted at rest using AWS S3 technology.
  • Access is strictly regulated and logged.
  • No general storage size limits; however:
    • Email attachments are capped at 50MB.
    • Files must be related to Jobs or Projects.

Note:

P3Source emails include links to files in the File Bank rather than traditional attachments. This enables the inclusion of larger files and avoids common email service restrictions.

File Bank Features at a Glance

File Summary Panel:

  • View: Downloads and opens the file.
  • Save As: Downloads the file to a chosen location.
  • Comment: Adds comments about the file.
  • History Tab: Displays download history, including:
    • Number of downloads.
    • Download dates.
    • Downloaded by (IP address or authenticated email).

File Management:

  • Files can be removed via the Remove button.
  • Comments and download history can be reviewed for auditing purposes.

Limitations and Exclusions

  • Files persist only while your P3Source account is active.
  • Inappropriate or unrelated file storage is prohibited and may result in file removal per P3Source's Terms of Service.

Simplify file management with the P3 File Bank—secure, reliable, and always at your fingertips.