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The definitive guide to document control and document management

Understand the difference, learn best practices, and discover how to manage engineering documents efficiently at scale.

The effective management and control of documents is critical for any organization that wants to operate efficiently, maintain compliance, and ensure data integrity. While the terms document control and document management are often used interchangeably, they refer to two distinct yet complementary processes that together form the backbone of successful information management.

About This Guide

This guide explains the definitions, differences, and shared objectives of document control and document management. You’ll learn how both disciplines contribute to project success, compliance, and collaboration — and how modern electronic Document Management Systems (eDMS) streamline these practices in complex engineering environments.

What You’ll Learn

  • The definitions and key differences between document control and document management
  • How both processes combine to support efficient project execution
  • Core elements of document control – traceability, version control, and access management
  • Core elements of document management – storage, retrieval, and collaboration
  • Best practices for integrating both processes under a single eDMS

Inefficient or fragmented document workflows lead to delays, errors, and compliance risks.
By understanding and optimizing both document control and document management, your organization can:

  • Reduce project delays and rework
  • Strengthen data accuracy and audit readiness
  • Improve collaboration across teams and disciplines

Document control and document management are not the same, but together, they ensure every project decision is based on accurate, approved information.

Explore Further

If you’re ready to apply these principles in practice:

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