Why Use the Vault Item Master? Unlock Smarter, Part-Centric Workflows with Autodesk Vault Professional
For many engineering teams using Autodesk® Vault Professional, managing files is second nature—but managing part numbers across CAD, manufacturing, and ERP systems often remains a fragmented, manual process. That’s where the Vault Item Master comes in.
In our recent webcast, we explored why adopting a part number-centric workflow through the Vault Item Master isn’t just a technical upgrade—it’s a strategic shift that connects engineering to the rest of the business more effectively.
What Is the Vault Item Master?
At its core, an item in Vault is a record that represents a part number. Unlike file records, which are tied to a specific CAD file, items can link to multiple files, including STEP, DXF, drawings, NC code, and documentation like assembly instructions or inspection plans. They allow for hierarchical relationships—enabling accurate, flexible Bills of Materials (BOMs) that are no longer trapped inside individual CAD files.
Why Make the Shift to Items?
During the webcast, we covered several compelling reasons:
- Part Number-Centric Workflows
Items reflect how the rest of your business (outside of engineering) communicates: by part number, not file name.
- Improved BOM Control and Flexibility
Extract, review, and edit BOMs outside of CAD. Add parts like Loctite or packaging materials without modifying your CAD models.
- Organized, Searchable Data
Instead of scattered files, items provide a clean container for everything related to a part—making it easier for non-CAD users to find what they need via Vault Thin Client.
- Support for Model States and Variants
Capture Inventor model states or SOLIDWORKS configurations as distinct part records, each with its own BOM and properties.
- Stronger Change Management
Items support change order workflows with part-specific disposition properties and automated state transitions—something files alone can’t do.
- Better ERP/PLM Integration
With Vault Items, BOMs are no longer locked in CAD. They’re accessible, consistent, and ready for integration with tools like SAP, Costpoint, or Autodesk Fusion Manage (Vault PLM). Many third-party and REST API integrations require items to function effectively.
When and How to Transition
If you’re using file lifecycles and revision control in Vault today, transitioning to items requires planning—but it’s worth the effort. If you’re just getting started with Vault or haven’t configured file-based behaviors yet, it’s the perfect time to consider going item-first.
You can begin by:
- Using items for new projects and standard parts
- Starting with top-level assemblies to generate multiple items quickly
- Consulting with a Vault expert (like our team at Hagerman) to guide your migration or configure bulk tools for existing data
Watch the Full Webcast
Want to see all of this in action and hear answers to audience questions?