Every object in M-Files has a metadata card. It keeps key
information about the object, for example:
- What the object is (for example a contract, proposal, or presentation).
- What it relates to (for example a particular customer or project).
- How it is managed (for example access rights or workflows).
You interact with the metadata card each time you save, edit, or review objects. The metadata provides immediate clarity about each document without needing to open the file. This saves time and removes guesswork. It also makes information easily accessible.
Automatic metadata
M-Files adds some metadata automatically when an object
is created or edited. You can see this information under the object name in the
metadata card:
- Object type (for example a document).
- The object ID and version number. The version number will increase as it is modified over time.
- Who created the object and when.
- Who last modified the object and when.
What the metadata card contains
The metadata card includes several sections that help describe and manage the object.
Class
The class tells you what kind of object this is (for example, project plan, contract or proposal).
Classes are customized for your organization. When you review available classes, you
understand what types of content your vault manages.
Note: The selected class determines which metadata properties are shown. For example,
choosing Project Plan may display fields like Customer, Project, and Effective Date.
Metadata properties
These fields give more details about the object. You can fill in properties like:
- What the object relates to.
- Who owns the object.
- When it becomes effective.
Related objects
Some properties are linked to other objects in M-Files.
If you see a related objects icon () next to a property, select it to open the linked object and its metadata card.
This shows how M-Files connects information by context and relationships.
Permissions and workflows
At the bottom of the metadata card, you will find:
- Permissions: Who can access the object and how.
- Workflow: The lifecycle stages the object goes through (for example: Draft → Review → Approved).
Note: Metadata is not fixed. You can update it at any time by opening the object and editing its metadata card.
This helps keep information accurate as your work evolves.
