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Earthling v42.0
Inspiring
January 3, 2024
Answered

How to tell which InDesign Lock file is locked or opened by someone else

  • January 3, 2024
  • 2 replies
  • 922 views

I work in a folder on a server where there are several people working in that same folder. We have multiple InDesign files in it. When someone is working in a file, it will show that there are 3 out of 6 InDesign files currently opened. How do I tell which of the 6 files are open? I tried looking at the Lock File preferences, but it doesn't tell me which file is open. 

This topic has been closed for replies.
Correct answer Earthling v42.0

We try this, but sometimes people aren't available to contact. We all work remotely and our Teams app shows people as unavailable. People will leave the file open during lunch/break/meetings/overnight... UGH! We have guidelines in place, but sometimes it's just not followed.  🙂 Thank you, Steve. 

2 replies

BobLevine
Community Expert
Community Expert
January 3, 2024

In addition to Steve's comments, I can only say that if this is truly a problem, don't put multiple INDD files in the same folder. Create subfolders for them.

Earthling v42.0
Inspiring
January 3, 2024

Not an option, but thanks for your comment!

Steve Werner
Community Expert
Community Expert
January 3, 2024

As far as I know, InDesign provides no way (visually) to tell which of those files are locked. InDesign was not designed to be a multi-user application.

 

Your colleagues should fine a way to communicate with each other when they're opening/closing files if you're sharing them in this way.

Earthling v42.0
Earthling v42.0AuthorCorrect answer
Inspiring
January 3, 2024

We try this, but sometimes people aren't available to contact. We all work remotely and our Teams app shows people as unavailable. People will leave the file open during lunch/break/meetings/overnight... UGH! We have guidelines in place, but sometimes it's just not followed.  🙂 Thank you, Steve.