Automatically release the edit lock when the user holding it has been inactive for a configurable period of time. Before releasing, a warning dialog gives the user a chance to stay in edit mode. If they don't respond, the lock is released and other users can take it.
The current edit lock system requires users to manually exit edit mode when they're done. If someone enters edit mode and then steps away from their computer without releasing the lock, no one else can make changes until they return. The inactivity timeout prevents this from blocking the team.
A timer starts when the user enters edit mode. If no editing activity is detected for a set period (e.g., 5 minutes), a warning dialog appears: "You'll be logged out of edit mode in 60 seconds due to inactivity." If the user clicks "Stay in edit mode," the timer resets. If they don't respond, the lock is automatically released, returning the workspace to view-only mode.