Copy Component Elements

[ludwiggv]

Is there a way to copy all estimator elements (cost code, description, vendor, attribute, Multiplier, etc) from one component to a new component. I often want the same attributes attributed to multiple similar components and having to type everything in multiple times is time consuming.

Thanks,

[John Brock]

Presently there is not (but working on it:)

The way I get around that is to assign data to a component then copy and make unique – all the data stays the same. I realize (and have realized this the hard way) that it only works that way if you start out that way.

[markintheworld]

I understand from your reply, John, that there is no way to assign the same data to a new component, but I’m wondering if there is a way to assign data to multiple unique components simultaneously? For example, if I know that all of my lumber will be coming from the same vendor, is there any way I can select ALL of my lumber, and assign it all the vendor by entering it once? Or is entering the vendor piece by piece the only way to do it? (aside from your method of copy & make unique)

[John Brock]

Currently, the only way to enter data is individually. If your current SketchUp selection is multiple components, in Estimator, there will be a drop-down box in Components and all of the components, individual, will be available to select – BUT you can only enter data one at a time. So, currently, the answer is no.

What we are working on (and I have no assurance it will be done and when, but it is in-process) – you will have ONE CSV file that you will be able to edit at one time. For example, LUMBER, you will be able to open the file and see your database lumber materials – add Vendor to any and all of them – edit their prices, etc. as if in a spreadsheet – save and then it will be there. This new update will take care of what you are asking, I just have no idea when I will receive it. I will certainly keep you posted.

[markintheworld]

Great – this would add a great functionality to an already powerful tool – kudos on the development of this plug-in!

Another functionality that I would hope that this spreadsheet might have is the possibility to show me which components and groups in the model do not yet have estimate info assigned to them.

The workflow that I am working with is probably the flip side of how you work – it seems that you front-load your models with estimate info as you build them – I, on the other hand, am backing in to the estimating process – I have developed a model, and then I am assigning estimates to it after its been designed, which I would suppose is a common workflow when working from a conceptual design into a construction design…the functionalities that I mention here would greatly help in that process!

thanks again for your great tool – keep up the good work!

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