In the PDM data card where I work we have to select between one of a few colors that the part will ultimately be painted during production. Is there a way to link the PDM data card to the appearance of the part such that when you pick the color in the data card, the appearance of the part will automatically change to that color? If this is possible I would like to change our parts template so that all parts will be automatically be colored in SolidWorks when we fill out the PDM data card.
You could possibly link some variables into the design table...
https://help.solidworks.com/2018/english/SolidWorks/sldworks/r_Color_Parameter_in_Configurations.htm
Drop down list with your colors.
The variable for your integer (color) numbers based off of an alias of your name = a number, which magically turns into your configuration color.
Just a shot in the dark, I've never done it. It would be fun to try if I had the time.