StowbillVersion control for working papers and deal documents
"Final_v3_revised_FINAL.xlsx" is a version control system, but not a good one. In Stowbill, every engagement document has one current version, a full history, and sign-offs that belong to the exact version that was signed.
Check-out and check-in
- Check a document out before editing. Others can see it is checked out and by whom.
- Check it back in with a short change note.
- Each check-in creates a new version. Earlier versions are kept.
Sign-offs that follow the version
A preparer or reviewer signs off a specific version. If someone uploads a new version afterwards, the sign-off resets and the document needs signing again. A signed-off paper can never quietly change underneath its signature.
Restore an earlier version
If a change was wrong, restore an earlier version. The restore is recorded as a new version, so the history stays complete.
Review and release
| Step | Who |
|---|---|
| Prepare and sign off | Preparer |
| Review and sign off | Reviewer |
| Quality review | Quality reviewer |
| Release | Independent partner |
Folders within each engagement
Organise documents in folders inside the engagement. Every action, from upload to sign-off, is written to the append-only activity trail.
Firm-wide files
Outside engagements, the Files module keeps version history with restore, a 30-day recycle bin and folder permissions for firm-wide documents such as templates and policies.
Questions
What happens if two people edit the same document?
Check-out prevents it. While one person has a document checked out, others can see that and wait.
Does a new version remove the old one?
No. Every version is kept and can be restored.
Why does a sign-off reset on a new version?
Because the signer approved the earlier content. The new content needs its own approval.
Can I see who changed what?
Each version carries the uploader, the time and the change note. The activity trail records the rest.
Which file types are supported?
Common office files, PDFs and images. Files are stored as uploaded.
Last reviewed 10 November 2026. General information, not professional or legal advice.
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