Libraries and

Specification Databases

Vector makes Libraries easy to use

Quick and effective searching and navigating a library efficiently is an essential feature of any good QS software, Vector has four display, search and navigation methods. Choose the view that suits you, swap between views by simply pressing a button
Outline view The outline navigator is the most popular method of browsing the library. It is simple to use and intuitive - it not only shows you the current item it also shows how it relates to other items within the library. It works in the same way as Microsoft Windows explorer.
List view The list navigator has three strong points. It shows how the code structure within the system relates to the descriptions. It is easier to see long descriptions.It is quicker to navigate libraries that have been defined in a list format.
Menu or Drop Down View Technically this is the fastest view to operate and is popular with experienced users who have built up a good picture in their head of the library. Although it is technically quick, it only shows the current area and thus is less intuitive to Surveyors starting out.
Search by keyword or code Although most surveyors generally prefer a visual search. There are times when Surveyors may wish to find items by way of its code, possibly for schedule of rates work. With the estimating libraries it can be useful for finding brand names.

Select the specification with a single click

NO HIDDEN extra costs, all these Libraries are supplied with the standard system.

What kind of libraries can be handled efficiently by Vector.

Libraries irrespective of the method of measurement or language, can be divided into three main categories. Vector handles all three types simply and efficiently.

Libraries defined by level headings.

This type of the library can be further divided into:-

Libraries which have or imply a separate specification database. This is the most popular type of published library type. Better known implementations of this type of library are the SMM7 Library of Standard Descriptions, and the various CESM Libraries. These libraries may also have qualifying items. and use the size sort.

Libraries which have specification in-situ. Specified libraries are essential when an item has to be priced, all the well-known price books are of his type and many in-house developed libraries followed this pattern.

Libraries defined as a list.

These tend to be smaller libraries which have been essentially defined as a linear list divided up by the occasional level one or level two heading to make the list more readable. This type of approach is often popular for refurbishment schedules and similar types of working.

Libraries defined by variables.

These are libraries where most of the options have been predefined as at lists of variables. The best known published example of this approach is the Roads and Highways Library. This particular approach is especially effective for Mechanical & Electrical Works.

Specifications

Specification content within the bill

Vector is flexible, the program enables you to work with specifications that are either defined separately - common arrangement style and referred to by reference. Or the specification can be put in-situ in the bill. You simply check a check box when you start a new project to tell the program which approach you wish to use.

Vector comes as standard with an specification database that is associated with the SMM7 library. All the specifications in this database have been cross coded so that they are looked up automatically when you press the specification button. The database is easy to enhance and modify to suit your practice's way of working.

Specification documents.

Vector includes specification document layouts. N.B.S. preambles and preliminaries may be imported.

Custom and other Libraries

In the UK, we ordinarily ship the SMM7 Library of Standard Descriptions with Vector. This is a very comprehensive library and provides a very good starting point for the majority of users. However many users will over a period of time create their own library for at least some of their work. In some cases, this is simply a matter of cloning a standard library and making particular modifications to suit their needs. You may also convert existing job(s) to a Library.

Other Libraries available

Do I have to use a library?

Of course not. There is much more to Vector than simply a library manager. Vector will automate order, summary and presentation however the content is entered.