# Collaboration

Rhino Sync makes multi-user collaboration seamless by enabling your team to work on the same Rhino model simultaneously, whether on a local network or via a cloud-based solution.

### Network and Cloud Options

* **Local Network:**\
  Use a shared network drive with sufficient read/write speed to ensure that every team member accesses the same central file. This setup enables real-time synchronization and smooth collaboration.
* **Google Drive Integration:**\
  For teams that need a cloud-based solution, Rhino Sync also integrates with Google Drive, ensuring connectivity and accessibility from anywhere.

{% hint style="warning" %}
During our alpha stage, you might encounter occasional errors or unexpected behavior. We value your feedback—please send any comments or issues to <info@mksdtech.com>.
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### Central File and Local Copies

* **Central File:**\
  This is the shared model where all users synchronize their changes. It serves as the project's core reference.
* **Local Copy:**\
  Each user works on a personal local copy created from the central file. This local workspace reduces conflicts and speeds up the editing process.

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The server only temporarily stores a lightweight ledger of element IDs to support collaboration—**never any geometry or design data**.&#x20;

This history is automatically deleted after 3 days of inactivity and is restored when collaboration resumes.&#x20;

**MKS DTECH has no access to geometry or user design data at any point**, and we do not store any authentication tokens from users.
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***

### Checkout Flow

1. **Attempt to Edit:**\
   When you try to edit an object, Rhino Sync first checks if the element is free (i.e., not already checked out).
2. **Locking the Object:**
   * **If the Element is Free:**\
     Your request to edit is approved by locking the element, effectively checking it out for your exclusive use.
   * **If the Element is Locked:**\
     If another team member has already locked the element, it remains read-only for you until the lock is released.
3. **Making Modifications:**\
   Once you have the lock, you can edit the object freely. While you work on it, others can view the object, but they cannot make changes until you release the lock.
4. **Unlocking/Release on Synchronization:**\
   When you synchronize your local copy with the central file, the lock on your edited object is automatically released.
5. **Central Update:**\
   After synchronization, the central file updates the lock status for all users, making the object available for checkout again.

{% hint style="info" %}
Tip. to check the ownership coloured dot click on the dot in the user list to visualize what object they own.&#x20;
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