How to Navigate the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform
Once you have accessed the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, it's important to understand how to navigate its various features and tools. In this guide, we will explore the different elements of the platform's interface, helping you become familiar with its navigation options and maximize your productivity.
Understanding the User Interface
There are two main aspects when navigating the user interface of the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. The 3DCompass and dashboards.
The 3DCompass is located in the top left corner of your window and is signified by a blue circle with a play button in the center and four quadrants, signifying Social & Collaborative, 3D Modeling, Simulation, and Information Intelligence.
The dashboard list is located in the top left corner of your window and is signified by the three-line or hamburger menu. The dashboards themselves are the primary focus of the interface.
How to Navigate the 3DCompass
Locate the 3DCompass icon, located in the top left of the window. Click on it to open it.
Think of the compass icon as the equivalent of the Windows start button; a place where you can access all of the tools available to your account.
Notice that the flyout is divided into four sections.
My Roles
A role is a group of apps that are sold as a package and is assigned to a user. The My Roles section shows a list of all roles that are assigned to your account, and you can click on one to see what apps are available in that role.
My Cockpits
A cockpit is a prebuilt dashboard, configured for a specific role. The My Cockpits section shows a list of all of the cockpits available to you based on the roles assigned to your account, and you can click on one to load the preconfigured dashboard.
My Favorite Apps
You can drag your favorite apps that are frequently accessed to this section for ease of access. You can click on one to load a temporary instance of an app, or you can drag them onto a dashboard if they are widget friendly.
My Apps
An app is a tool designed for a specific purpose, such as SOLIDWORKS Connected for design. Similarly to your favorite apps, you can click on an app in the My Apps section to launch a temporary instance or drag on a dashboard to pin it for future use.
Use the magnifying glass button in the top right of the flyout pane to search for roles, cockpits, or apps.
Use the gear icon in the top left of the flyout pane to customize how your apps are displayed.
How to Navigate Dashboards
Locate the dashboard list icon, located in the top left of your window. Click on it to open it.
Select a dashboard you would like to open.
Navigate between the tabs, which will each house different apps that have been pinned
Utilize the apps that have been pinned to a tab.
The 3DEXPERIENCE Quick Access Toolbar and Search Bar
As an honorable mention, the quick access toolbar, located in the top right of your window, and the search bar, located in the top center of your window provide powerful capabilities to help you navigate and streamline your use of the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. While we believe the 3DCompass and Dashboards are the primary form of navigation, we still very much believe in the power of these two tools and you can read more about them in dedicated posts linked below.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have learned how to navigate the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. By understanding the user information, utilizing the compass icon, and exploring the top right icons, you are now equipped to navigate the platform's interface with ease. Remember to leverage the various tools and features available to you to maximize your productivity and collaboration. Enjoy your experience with the 3DEXPERIENCE platform!