Problem
A creator deletes unused source clips to save storage, not realizing a previously published vertical edit still depends on one of those clips for future revision.
Solution
Root Cause / Diagnostic:
Premature project trimming or manual cache cleaning deletes raw media files that are perceived as "unused" in the main sequence, ignoring secondary derivative projects that reference those specific media bins. When client feedback or a revision request requires reopening the vertical cut, critical source media is permanently lost.
Actionable Fix:
1. Restrict media deletion to automated project consolidation: use your NLE's native consolidation tool to consolidate used media with handles (e.g., 48 frames) before archiving.
2. Require a multi-project dependency check before deleting any raw media card or B-roll bin from primary network storage.
3. Verify that all secondary and repurposed project files are bundled as standalone project archives (.dra or consolidated .prproj) containing all localized assets before raw media purging.
Pro Tip:
Implement a "Trash Quarantine" policy: move deprecated raw media to a 30-day staging cold folder before permanent deletion, allowing ample time for derivative project dependencies to surface.
Premature project trimming or manual cache cleaning deletes raw media files that are perceived as "unused" in the main sequence, ignoring secondary derivative projects that reference those specific media bins. When client feedback or a revision request requires reopening the vertical cut, critical source media is permanently lost.
Actionable Fix:
1. Restrict media deletion to automated project consolidation: use your NLE's native consolidation tool to consolidate used media with handles (e.g., 48 frames) before archiving.
2. Require a multi-project dependency check before deleting any raw media card or B-roll bin from primary network storage.
3. Verify that all secondary and repurposed project files are bundled as standalone project archives (.dra or consolidated .prproj) containing all localized assets before raw media purging.
Pro Tip:
Implement a "Trash Quarantine" policy: move deprecated raw media to a 30-day staging cold folder before permanent deletion, allowing ample time for derivative project dependencies to surface.