How to export documents out of NetDocuments – Method 2 – ndSync

Posted in NetDocuments Exporting Documents, NetDocuments Tips on July 23, 2019 by Craig Bayer

There are four methods* for exporting documents out of NetDocuments:

*Each user also has the option to download documents. This will export the documents from NetDocuments but not preserve any folder or filter format.

This article will discuss Method 2: ndSync.

ndSync is a reliable and efficient tool designed to seamlessly synchronize an area of NetDocuments with your local computer, acting as a Dropbox-like solution tailored for NetDocuments users.

For Canadian Data Center clients, ndSync is particularly invaluable. Due to limitations with the Mass Export Tool for the Canadian Data Center, ndSync provides the perfect alternative to efficiently access and manage your documents locally

Pros:

  • It’s easy to use.
  • If a document is in multiple locations, it will export it to multiple locations.
  • It allows you to do Multiple Matters at the same time.
  • CollabSpaces will be exported.

Cons

  • You have to purchase ndsync
  • It only exports the official version, not every single version
  • You can run into File Path Length Issues.
  • It doesn’t create a file with all the metadata information (Comments, Author, etc.)

First, we must ensure the firm has purchased and turned on ndSync.

Part 1: Turn on ndSync

Step 1: In the NetDocuments Admin Console, go to ndSync and Mobile Management

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Step 2: Make Sure Allow ndSync is checked

If it says ndSync is disabled for this repository, you won’t be able to use this method.

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Part 2: Install ndSync on your computer

Windows: https://optiable.com/installing-ndsync-on-a-windows-computer/

Mac: https://optiable.com/installing-ndsync-on-a-mac/

Part 3: Sync a Workspace to your desktop

The Bluth Company wants its matter, the Purchase of 4432 Tetrick Road, back.

Step 1: Go to that workspace in NetDocuments and click on the Carrot Next to the Matter Name

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Step 2: Click  Sync workspace

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Step 3:  Download ndSync if you have not installed it.

We cover installing ndSync in these articles:  WINDOWS or MAC

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Step 4: Once ndSync is installed, click on the ndSync Icon in the system tray (bottom right corner)

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Step 5: Clean up and folder path issues. (Windows Only)

See this article to prevent file and folder path issues from occurring.

Folderpath issues are usually because of email.  When you sync something to a Windows computer, you deal with Windows folder path limitations.  NetDocuments doesn’t have the limitations Windows does.

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In this instance, I need to shrink the names of some of the emails before they sync on a Windows computer.  If I click the pencil next to the title, I can shorten it.

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Step 6: Once it stops saying Syncing, click on the folder

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This will allow me to browse the Workspace on my computer.

Step 7: Copy the workspace folder to your desktop

You could copy the folder to a flash drive and send it to the client. If you transmit it via the Internet, you probably want to compress the folder.

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Step 8:  Download and install 7-Zip to compress the file.

https://www.7-zip.org/download.html

Step 9: Right-click on the folder, choose 7-Zip, and then choose the fifth option.

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This will create a compressed file.

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Step 10:  In NetDocuments, Choose Unsync Workspace

When you have sent the file, you should unsync the Workspace from your desktop.

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Would you like Optiable’s help with exporting files from NetDocuments?

About the Author

Craig Bayer is the founder and leader of Optiable, an award-winning document management (DMS) consulting firm dedicated to helping law firms seamlessly integrate NetDocuments. Specializing in firms with 10 to 150 users, he has successfully guided over 500 law firms across the United States and Canada through NetDocuments implementations since 2010.

With deep expertise in the legal industry, Craig has a proven track record of optimizing technology to meet the unique needs of law firms. His certifications include industry-leading tools such as Amicus Attorney, Centerbase, Clio, PCLaw, HotDocs, TimeMatters, Soluno, and Worldox, enabling him to deliver comprehensive solutions tailored to each client’s workflow and goals.

Craig Bayer