This topic assists in the explanation of the basic concepts and constructs of using REGEX patterns to check and verify (pass/fail) file naming standards. A regular expression is formal language to define a search pattern. It is a technique developed in theoretical computer science used in search engines. Avolve is using a Regex sequence to define the syntax of a jurisdictional submissions naming standard as an optional submission policy check to a ProjectDox folder.
Using a REGEX pattern in ProjectDox…
1. Select and copy the sample regex pattern that is a match or closest to the naming standard in use.
2. Paste the copied regex pattern into a Regex Tester to test and modify. To test and/or modify a Regex pattern for file naming convention policy checking, you can use an online REGEX testing webpage tool like this one: Regex Tester - JavaScript, PCRE, PHP (regexpal.com).
3. Modifying the Regex patterns and regex primer topicis designed to provide regex groupings to enable some easy editing of a sample pattern to accommodate changes. Your naming standard may accommodate slightly different ways to handle insert sheet numbering, or floor/campus building numbers, or you may require all CAPS, or not allow special characters in the sheet title description or have different discipline letters. Look at the other regex sample patterns (especially the alternative notations) for ways to change the regex pattern closest to your standard to be exactly what your naming standard is.
If you aren’t familiar with regex syntax first review the regex primer topic.
Be sure to watch for matching group parentheses “(“ ”)” – most common regex edit error; the regex online tester puts a red _ on syntax errors.
Don’t use spaces in the pattern.
4. A tested/working regex pattern can now be used in ProjectDox as a submission file naming standard policy check. When the applicant is uploading files for their plan review (both new submissions and corrected versions), this regex pattern will be applied to each file name and if there is a regex “match,” the submission policy for file naming has been met (file will be accepted for uploading). If there is not a “match,” then ProjectDox will not allow this file to be uploaded into the system until the file name is changed to have a successful “match” with the regex pattern. This test can be configured to be applied to specific folders as required. For example, drawing submission folders could require a naming standard, and document submissions folders might not.
Once the REGEX pattern is tested and confirmed follow these steps to use in ProjectDox PDF Submission Policy tool, open the Project Template, the “Info” tab, the Folder tab, select the circle checkmark icon (see below), enable the policy checking for this folder (“Policy Check Folder” checkbox), enable the “Naming Convention – Regex Pattern” checkbox , then paste your tested Regex pattern to use.
