The user can’t see the file archive location, it’s not a shared location and is only available on the server. The users only see their local cache which has user defined folders structure and the “normal” file names. Even if the file isn’t cached, they somehow do some Windows magic and display it.
Regarding Smarteam, I don’t believe you can buy it anymore. Could be wrong, the website shows it like it’s a product. From what I remember, it was a slight step up from PDM Pro. Now with “Manage”, I’m not so sure.
‘Manage’ adds BOM/item management that doesn’t rely on CAD data, although it can. It also has ECOs (Processes), project management with tasks, and some dashboard reporting. So it’s bridging the PLM side some.