SMART Estimator

SMART Estimator Legacy Release Notes

Version 2020.0 (Build 945)
December 2019

The following enhancements have been made in this version of SMART Estimator:

  • AddedCheck and download updates from within SMART Estimator:
    • An option to check for any new updates and download the latest has been added.
    • The installer is now lightweight and faster to download and install.
  • UpdatedSupport for proxy servers for using Cloud license:
    • SMART Estimator can be now configured to use a proxy server to validate a cloud based license.
  • ImprovedA few performance related tune-ups have been added and this should help lessen the initial launch time for SMART Estimator.
    • If you are not using any hardware licence keys, SMART Estimator can be configured to not check for them, which will increase the launch speed.
  • ImprovedReport IT has been better aligned to fit on wide 4K monitors.
  • Issue FixedThe 3D model no longer flickers for some combinations of graphics card and monitors.

Version 2019.3 (Build 633)
May 2019

The following enhancements have been made in this version of SMART Estimator:

  • AddedRevisions and Variations are now fully supported. These new types of quotes are derived from an existing “parent” quote:
    • A revision has the same content as the original quote until edited but a different, related quotation number.
    • A variation is a new fresh quotation, but with a related quotation number.
    • To support this, quotation numbers now have 5 parts:
    • Prefix – Number – Suffix – Revision – Variation
  • AddedRakers are now available for Tube and Fitting independents.
    • Rakers to the second or first lift are now available, replacing tie positions, as shown in Fig. 6.62 and 6.64 of the TG20:13 Operational guide.
  • Added“Road and building” maps can now be imported and traced over using BIM Toolbox. Snap points are included around buildings to speed up tracing the building perimeter.
  • ImprovedImprovements when creating a new quote:
    • When creating a new quote (project), you can now specify more information immediately, including: the contract number, description, pricing rates to use, creation date, start date, and a follow-up reminder date.
    • When creating a new quote or later editing the address, the user interface has been updated to make the function of address groups clearer. A label now shows which address is currently selected, and how many addresses are in the current group.
    • Revisions and Variations of existing quotes can now be easily created from the File menu > New tab.
  • UpdatedThe Hire Period can now be set when specifying an item in Schedule IT > Summary View.
  • UpdatedThe lead-in for an item can now be removed in Schedule IT > Summary View.
  • UpdatedThe term “Contract number” has been replaced everywhere by “Quote number” for clarity.
  • UpdatedThe Project Browser no longer includes an image of the scaffold, instead showing the item ID.
  • UpdatedSMART Estimator now uses Microsoft PDF Printer for generating PDFs if available. PDF Factory is no longer used. This improves the look, particularly for semi-transparent watermarks.
  • UpdatedDraw Plan 90 degree snapping now works for the second elevation. Previously only the third elevation and later would snap.
  • UpdatedThe final graphic on the installer has been improved.
  • UpdatedThe default loading for Plettac Metrix loading bays has been updated to match the latest guidance.
  • UpdatedAddresses will now always show in File > Address Settings once they are set.
  • RemovedThe stacked tubes image on the Project Browser has been removed to make the interface cleaner.
  • ImprovedImprovements in managing existing quotes:
    • The layout of the grid for opening and editing quotes has been improved.
    • Quotes can be copied with a new quotation number.
    • A revision for a quote can now be created.
    • A variation of a quote can now be created.
    • Quotations can now be more easily grouped into folders (categories).
    • It is easier to create and re-name categories (folders).
    • Quotes can be dragged and dropped into folders (categories).
    • A new Undo Sorting button has been added, to return you easily to the default layout of the grid.
  • ImprovedThe Price IT > Item pricing report now stretches to fill all available width. This should allow larger numbers to fit in the price boxes for most displays.
  • ImprovedDraw Plan helper lines (for drawing 90 degree angles) now show even if the grid is active. This should make it easier to line up elevations correctly.
  • ImprovedCADS is continuing to review and improve how SMART Estimator looks and works on high resolution and high scaling displays. In many cases, the layout has been improved to accommodate high resolution (“4k” and “8k”) displays.
  • ImprovedThe materials list layout on 4k monitors has been improved.
  • Issue FixedA rare issue that caused the TG20:13 summary not to appear the first time it was opened has been fixed.
  • Issue FixedAn issue that would cause the split elevation grips to vanish in some circumstances has been fixed.
  • Issue FixedA rare issue that would cause the material list to show error E03001 has been fixed.
  • Issue FixedAn issue that caused edge protection guardrails to be offset from the top of the elevation by too much has been fixed.

VVersion 2019.2 (Build 262)
February 2019

The following enhancements have been made in this version of SMART Estimator:

  • AddedAn export is available to the following accounting packages:
    • Sage 50 desktop
    • QuickBooks
    • Xero
    • This export is a CSV file for a Sage Audit Trail log, a Xero invoice import or a QuickBooks invoice import.
    • The new Invoicing link licence is required to access this feature.

VVersion 2019.1 (Build 229)
December 2019

The following enhancements have been made in this version of SMART Estimator:

  • AddedA new “Item ID” column has been added to the Schedule IT grid, allowing items to be assigned IDs other than the default “1”, “2”, “3”, such as “6a”, “6b”, “6c”, etc.
    • The quotation includes a new Item ID SMARTText field to allow this new ID to appear in the quotation.
  • AddedSystem scaffolding hop-up brackets can now be scheduled by size and material, instead of number of decks. This allows more control over the brackets and decks you want to use.
  • AddedA new component is available for Tube and Fitting called “Kentledge”. This new component must be switched on through the Configuration tab before it can be used. It is available as an Extra Material to be added to the material list.
  • AddedNew Readylok transoms are available for Tube and Fitting:
    • XTENDA intermediate transom 1000m (4 + 3)
    • XTENDA intermediate transom 1000m (5 + 3)
    • Readylok transom: 3-board
  • AddedA new style of edge protection guardrails is available for Tube and Fitting: X-frame.
  • ImprovedImprovements in Plettac Metrix:
    • The connection positions in standards are now placed to avoid lift levels.
    • A new 0.5m wide hop-up bracket has been added.
  • Bug FixedFixed a bug that could cause some tabs to vanish after editing the addresses through the File menu.
  • Bug FixedFixed a crash when connecting to a brand new, never used server that you did not install.
  • Issue FixedFixed an issue that would cause the Enterprise server data to be updated unnecessarily when installing SMART Estimator 2019 with SMART Estimator 2017.0 – 2018.3 already installed.
  • Issue FixedFixed an issue with the material list when changing from Tube and Fitting to Plettac Metrix with hop-ups present.
  • Issue FixedFixed an issue with the email created by Quote IT > Email As PDF sometimes having no body text.
  • Issue FixedPricing rates are no longer listed as “This Project Rates(Name)” when they have no changes.

Version 2019.0 (Build 62)
October 2018

The following enhancements have been made in this version of SMART Estimator:

  • UpdatedSMART Estimator 2019 has a new look. A new style and new icons used on all buttons.
  • UpdatedSMART Estimator 2019 is sharper and clearer on high-resolution displays.
  • UpdatedThis product has been called SMART Estimator for some time. This version makes this name more prominent. The following have been renamed to SMART Estimator:
    • The installed application name is SMART Estimator 2019.
    • The installation directory is SMART Estimator 2019.
    • The server tools application is called SMART Estimator Server Tools 2019.
  • Unsupported32-bit Windows is no longer supported.
    • 32-bit editions of Windows are no longer supported, so SMART Estimator will not install on these systems. The more common 64-bit editions are still supported.
  • ImprovedImproved the message shown when exporting the quote to a PDF that already exists and is read-only.
  • Issue FixedFixed an issue where under certain conditions the price would change on saving and reopening a project for the first time.
  • Issue FixedFixed an issue where the fonts and table styles would sometimes change when opening the quote print preview.
  • Issue FixedFixed an issue where changes to the columns shown in the scaffold dimensions table were not saved correctly to the quotation template.
  • Issue FixedFixed an issue in pricing extra materials for quotes created in older versions of SMART Estimator.
  • Issue FixedFixed an issue where the customer telephone and email was sometimes not updated to match the contact after first creating a quote.
  • Issue FixedFixed an issue where add-ons could not be removed from all scaffolds at once in Schedule IT.

Version 2018.3 (Build 14147)
August 2018

The following enhancements have been made in this version of SMART Estimator:

  • Added3D chimney stack scaffolds are now available for Tube and Fitting.
    • These chimney stack scaffolds can be created through the 3D model or schedule and include a number of options for different types of access.
  • AddedA 1.5m lift option is now available as a tick box in the Schedule IT Height column.

Version 2018.2 (Build 12107)
April 2018

The following enhancements have been made in this version of SMART Estimator:

  • UpdatedCloud export pricing data
    • The cloud export now contains pricing data. Contact support@cads.co.uk if you would like access to this data.
    • When setting the name of a contact in the address book and pressing tab, the address will no longer sometimes vanish, as it changes position.
    • Changing the creation date for the open project using the File > Projects screen now causes the date to update immediately instead of on the next open.
  • ImprovedImprovements in scheduling:
    • A new First lift height field is available so the first lift height can be changed without switching to custom lift heights.
  • ImprovedImprovements in BIM Toolbox:
    • Satellite photos can now be imported in three different sizes: small, medium and large.
    • The smaller imports are higher quality photos, but the larger ones cover a wider area.
    • You can now edit an imported PDF image, satellite photo or elevation image using new tools. This includes:
    • Cropping the photo to decrease the size, and
    • Drawing on the photo with a pen.
  • ImprovedImprovements in pricing:
    • A day work rate can now be set from the Labour Options menu.
  • ImprovedImprovements in quoting:
    • The day work rate can now be shown using a new SMARTText field.
    • All prices can now optionally be displayed as words, rather than numbers.
    • It is possible to show both on the same quote.
  • ImprovedImprovements in Draw Plan:
    • It is now possible to draw scaffolds in Draw Plan mode while the grid is hidden;
    • Even when the grid is shown, points can be selected which are off the grid;
    • New “Helper lines” have been added which assist with creating 90 degree corners and aligning Draw Plan points.
  • ImprovedImprovements in Model IT:
    • Inside guardrails can now be set differently from the outer guardrails, and can vary by lift.

Version 2018.1 (Build 776)
March 2018

The following enhancements have been made in this version of SMART Estimator:

  • AddedAdded a tooltip for system scaffolding bridges to let you know the available system beam sizes.
  • UpdatedThe material list can now be sorted by product code as well as the existing component name.
  • UpdatedThe release notes and what’s new documents changed to website links.
  • ImprovedImprovements in Performance:
    • Performance on many of the Model IT add-ons tools, including bridges has been improved.
    • You may notice that the preview (the image shown when you hover with a 3D tool) for these tools has changed. This improvement will be applied to more tools in future updates.
    • For system scaffolding, the logic for choosing bay sizes has been optimised, so resizing and creating scaffolds is faster.
    • The Draw Plan button is now available on the BIM Toolbox tab, so you no longer have to switch to Model IT before adding scaffolds to an imported site plan or satellite photo.
    • Quote IT will now offer to automatically compress large images in quotation templates when you press the Edit this Quote Template button.
    • Reduced the size of the download, so this update will download faster.
  • ImprovedImprovements in Plettac Metrix:
    • Improved the logic for choosing bay sizes, so tube and fitting infill bays are now very rare.
    • Hop-up brackets with a clip instead of a built-in collar now allow inside guardrails. A standard base collar is added to each hop-up.
    • Attached stair towers now include an extra Internal Guardrail between the stair and the independent to act as fall protection.
    • Many components added, including corner filler hop-ups, façade and plan bracing and some updates to component names.
    • Birdcages now include additional façade bracing following a clarification from the manufacturer.
    • Loading bay un-boarded lifts now receive plan bracing if two wing braces are not present.
    • The 2.5m and 3m trapdoor decks now include a built-in ladder, while the shorter 2m and 1.5m require a separate ladder.
    • Fixed an issue where the ladder would sometimes face the wrong way in 1.3m birdcage bays.
    • Removed some unnecessary ledgers from the Plettac Metrix stair.
  • ImprovedImprovements in Quote IT:
    • New Table of Items SMARTText is available. This table summarises the name, hire period and price of all items in the project. The default quote now has 3 fewer sections.
  • ImprovedImprovements in SMART Estimator Enterprise:
    • The SMART Estimator client can no longer create an Enterprise data structure. This led to some confusion, so installing Enterprise can now only be done through the installer, as in SMART Estimator 2017 and earlier.
    • Fixed an issue that caused non-admin users to be unable to access an Enterprise data structure created by an admin user.
  • Issue FixedFixed an issue that caused very small scaffolds created in earlier versions to have no lifts.
  • Issue FixedFixed a slight delay in the stair tooltip, which meant you could hover the stair tool over a valid bay and it would appear to say the bay is the wrong size.
  • Issue FixedFixed an issue that caused address books that contain some special characters to fail to upgrade.
  • Issue FixedFixed some minor highlighting and font issues on the front page of the installer.

Version 2018.0 (Build 763)
November 2017

The following enhancements have been made in this version of SMART Estimator:

  • RenamedThe software name has been changed to SMART Estimator 2018. You might notice a new loading “splash” panel when you start SMART Estimator 2018, as well as a slightly refreshed welcome screen.
  • AddedNew features in Schedule IT:
    • “Manual” chimney stacks and manual temporary roofs are now available to schedule!
      • These two new scaffold types are available via the schedule and allow labour to be priced and a quote created for a chimney stack or temporary roof more easily.
      • No 3D model or drawings are available for these two “manual” types, but materials can be added via Report IT, as for the existing Manual scaffold type.
    • Even more flexibility to customise lift heights has been added. Many common lift heights are available by selecting them with the Enter key. Any combination of lift heights is possible using the new Custom option.
    • It is now possible to specify which lifts are boarded instead of just the number of boarded lifts.
    • Many add-ons can now be scheduled, including: banner, safety lamps, high-visibility standards, double standards, sheeting, debris netting, brick guards, cantilever fans, bridges and ladder positions.
    • The Schedule IT UI has been streamlined. Many columns have been removed and combined to make the grid easier to read and navigate.
    • Schedule IT now names independent scaffolds by default as if they are connected. This does not affect the 3D model, load list or drawings, but does show on the price and quote.
    • Scaffold and / or elevation names may now be blank.
      • We noticed some estimators setting the elevation names as “.” or “-” to remove the elevation names on the quote. This is now possible by simply deleting the name.
      • Setting the scaffold name as blank also affects the quotation. See the quotation improvements below for details.
    • Edge protection scaffolds may now be up to 9999m long. This is ten times the previous limit. The 3D model is not shown for a very long edge protection scaffold.
  • ImprovedThe default lead-ins included with SMART Estimator have been improved. The new list is inspired by C.A.S.E. For this update, this list is only available when installing on a computer that has not had a previous version of SMART Estimator.
  • ImprovedImprovements in Quote IT:
    • The table of Scaffold Dimensions has been improved:
      • The dimensions are now in clearly labelled columns;
      • The table has a more spacious, easier to read style;
      • Gable lifts are now more clearly separated from main lifts;
      • Identical independent scaffold names are no longer repeated.
      • If the independent scaffold name is blank, no row is included in the table for the name.
    • The Guardrails Description has been improved:
      • Guardrail descriptions are now clearer and shorter.
    • The Lift Heights Description has been improved:
      • Lift height descriptions are now clearer and more detailed.
    • The Loading Description has been improved:
      • Loading descriptions are now clearer and shorter.
  • ImprovedImprovements in Quote IT:
    • The table of Scaffold Dimensions has been improved:
      • The dimensions are now in clearly labelled columns;
      • The table has a more spacious, easier to read style;
      • Gable lifts are now more clearly separated from main lifts;
      • Identical independent scaffold names are no longer repeated.
      • If the independent scaffold name is blank, no row is included in the table for the name.
    • The Guardrails Description has been improved:
      • Guardrail descriptions are now clearer and shorter.
    • The Lift Heights Description has been improved:
      • Lift height descriptions are now clearer and more detailed.
    • The Loading Description has been improved:
      • Loading descriptions are now clearer and shorter.
  • ImprovedImproved pricing:
    • The Project pricing grid can now be printed showing all of the columns that you have set as visible.
    • The pie chart report is now available via a new separate button.
    • The item price “breakdown” report now includes the customer and site address.
    • Driving directions are now available from a new option in the Transport Options menu.
  • ImprovedPerformance and workflow improvements:
    • Schedule IT and BIM Toolbox are now the first tabs on the left.
      • This means that tabs are generally used from left to right, improving the flow of the software. In particular, BIM Toolbox should come before Model IT, so site plans can be imported before tracing scaffolds onto them.
    • When copying via the Project Browser, the new item is now placed as the last item in the scaffold. This much-requested improvement reduces how often you will need to re-order items.
    • After installing SMART Estimator, the first launch is now faster.
    • The database containing all of your SMART Estimator Enterprise quotations no longer requires Microsoft SQL Server. This has the following benefits:
      • Downloading and installing SMART Estimator is much faster. The installation is now simpler, with fewer options.
      • The database is now a simple Windows directory structure, so backing up, moving, locating and accessing your Enterprise files is much easier.
  • NoticeIt is our pleasure to offer SMART Estimator Draw IT 2018, available free-of-charge from the SMART Estimator website. This bolt on for Autodesk AutoCAD 2018 provides blocks, guides and tools for editing scaffold drawings using AutoCAD. It works best when combined with the Draw IT link module, which creates AutoCAD files from your SMART Estimator scaffold drawings.

Version 2017.1 (Build 723)
July 2017

The following enhancements have been made in this version of SMART Estimator:

  • AddedGuard rails are now available for foot lifts for independents, circular tanks and tied towers, for all scaffolding systems.
    • Foot lift guard rails are available for all scaffolding systems, including tube and fitting.
    • Inside guard rails can optionally be applied.
    • A footlift is required to add these guard rails, but it does not need to be boarded or decked.
    • When the foot lift is boarded or decked and guard rails are added, toe boards are also included.
  • AddedSplit elevation grips are now available, allowing the position of a split to be easily changed.
    • Dragging the split close to an elevation end will erase the split.
    • These grips can optionally be hidden from the Options view.
  • AddedNew Plettac Metrix features:
    • 4-leg stair towers are now available.
    • Intermediate (deck-to-deck) and intermediate (deck-to-ledger) transoms are now used for erecting ladder hatches.
    • Components have been added to support a 1.3m bay length.
    • Ledger-to-ledger side brackets are now available. The easiest way to apply these is to disable all hop-ups and sliding hop-ups.
    • Bridges have been updated:
      • The beam is now placed one connection lower to facilitate connections for decking.
      • Standards above the bridge beam are now supported by puncheons.
    • Loading bay gates now include 2 x U-head ledger spigot for standards.
  • AddedDraw Plan features:
    • It is now easier to find common buttons. Infrequently used buttons have been moved into a new menu.
    • The Snap to 90 degrees feature is now disabled by default, but can be easily enabled.
    • Scaffolds are now hidden by default, shown as grid lines.
    • Double clicking to drop the Zoom, Rotate or Pan tools no longer finishes the independent that you are drawing.
  • AddedA new clause recommended by the NASC Contractors Legal Group has been added for new, fresh installations.
  • Issue FixedFixed an issue that caused the Split Elevation tool not to highlight the scaffold on hover.
  • Issue FixedCopy Picture now correctly trims whitespace around the scaffold.
  • Issue FixedCopy Picture and Project Browser items no longer sometimes capture pop-ups in front of the 3D model.
  • Issue FixedClicking the Copy button for an item now copies that item rather than the active item.
  • Issue FixedFixed some cases where saving fails. SMART Estimator will now automatically repair any such files.
  • Issue FixedAddressed an issue with 1st and 2nd generation Intel on-board graphics, where no separate graphics card is available, which would cause 50% of the 3D model space to work correctly and 50% to be white.
    • If you face this issue, please set the Graphics Quality to Medium or Low. Some features are disabled in these modes, which are not supported by these on-board graphics.

Version 2017.0 (Build 702)
March 2017

The following enhancements have been made in this version of SMART Estimator:

  • RenamedThe software name has been changed to SMART Estimator 2017. You might notice a new loading “splash” panel when you start SMART Estimator 2017, as well as a slightly refreshed welcome screen.
  • AddedNew tools in BIM Toolbox:
    • Photos and other images can now be added to the front face of the building.
    • A satellite photo of the site can be imported and traced on. (Requires an internet connection)
    • Non-vector PDFs can now be imported as images. (Vector PDFs can still be imported as lines and traced over.)
  • ImprovedPerformance Improvements:
    • 3D model performance has been improved under the Windows 10 Anniversary Update.
    • A new Graphics Quality setting is available from the File > Settings screen. This defaults to Medium, but can be reduced to Low to improve 3D model performance, or set as High to improve the 3D model look.
    • A new Check My Hardware tool is available from the File > Settings screen. This tool checks your hardware against those required to run SMART Estimator and gives advice accordingly.

Version 2016.2 (Build 661)
September 2016

The following enhancements have been made in this version of SMART Estimator:

  • AddedPlettac Metrix Advanced Guard Rails are now available.
    • These frames replace the guard rails and façade bracing. Some sizes also act as a ledger and toe board.
  • AddedFont and styling tools are now available in the dialog.
  • AddedA menu for adding SMARTText descriptions is now available in the dialog.
  • UpdatedThe TG20:13 summary report has been updated.
    • A new warning graphic has been added for scaffolds that do not comply. For clarity, a column title has been changed and a footnote removed.
  • UpdatedTube and Fitting loading bays now include a foot lift, even when attached to a scaffold without a foot lift.
  • ImprovedThe dialog for setting the body text shown on a quotation email has been improved:
  • Bug FixedSome minor bug fixes are included.

Version 2016.1 (Build 660)
July 2016

The following enhancements have been made in this version of SMART Estimator:

  • AddedThe Turner OCTO scaffolding system is now available!
    • Turner OCTO uses Bracing Guardrails to reduce required materials.
  • AddedQuoting now includes a UK English spell checker.
  • UpdatedWhen emailing a quote, the email is automatically populated with:
    • A recipient taken from the customer address contact;
    • A subject based on the contract number and contract description;
    • Customisable text, which may include automatic “SMARTText” descriptions;
    • The attached document name now includes the contract number.
  • ImprovedPerformance Improvements:
    • SMART Estimator now launches faster, by completing more launch activities simultaneously.
    • The grid of Enterprise projects now shows more quickly. The tile view is no longer loaded when the grid view is active.
    • SMART Estimator files and projects saved on the server are now smaller. Only quotation templates that you have actually viewed or edited are saved in the file.
  • ImprovedPlettac Metrix bay logic
    • Plettac Metrix is now improved to use fewer but larger bays in some cases.

Version 2016.0 (Build 643)
February 2016

The following enhancements have been made in this version of SMART Estimator:

  • AddedThe Plettac Metrix scaffolding system is now available!
    • Plettac Metrix allows a unique divisible corner detail, so that fewer standards are required than for other ring systems.
  • AddedQuadruple guard rails: Kwikstage and Layher
    • Quad guard rails can now be placed at the top lift for Kwikstage and Layher scaffolds.
  • AddedDrawings improvements – The following improvements have been made to the drawings:
    • The font colour of dimensions in the drawings can now be set, the default colour is now black rather than light grey.
    • The drawing dimension size can now be increased using a multiplier. For example, setting the Text Size to 1.5 increases the text dimensions to 150% of the default size.
  • UpdatedTG20:13 Compliance: Site Address
    • The site address can also be set from the Wind Factor menu in the TG20:13 Compliance tab.
  • UpdatedIT administrator tools – It is now possible for IT administrators to disable the following functions:
    • Saving locally
      It is now possible to prevent chosen users from saving projects to local directories (such as their desktop). You can use this to force estimators to save to the shared Enterprise database instead (if you have the Enterprise module licensed).
    • Editing component pricing
      You can prevent users from accessing the way that individual scaffolding components are priced by default.
  • UpdatedFile menu – Some control styles and layouts in the File menu have been updated, including:
    • When selecting an address in File > New, a new Back button is available to cancel this action.
    • Project address settings, such as the customer and site address can now be edited from the File menu, even once the project has been created.
    • For users sharing quotations over the Enterprise Server, it is now easier to open projects. An Open Project button has been added to the File > Projects screen.
  • UpdatedSMART Estimator 2016:
    • The software name has been changed to SMART Estimator 2016. You might notice a new loading “splash” panel when you start SMART Estimator 2016, a new launch icon and a refreshed welcome screen.
    • SMART Estimator 2016 can be installed and run on the same computer as any one previous version of SMART Estimator. If you have the Enterprise module, a new Enterprise database will be created for SMART Estimator 2016. If you install to the same location as the previous version, all of your settings and projects will be copied to SMART Estimator 2016.
  • SupportedSupported operating systems
    • Windows Vista not supported
      Microsoft Windows Vista is no longer a supported operating system. This version will not install on a Microsoft Windows Vista workstation.
    • SMART Estimator 2016 supports the following operating systems:
      SMART Estimator Enterprise Server SMART Estimator
      Windows 10 Windows 10
      Windows 8.1 Windows 8.1
      Windows Server 2012 R2 Windows Server 2012 R2
      Windows 7 (with Service Pack 1) Windows 7 (with Service Pack 1)
      Windows Server 2012 (with Service Pack 1) Windows Server 2012 (with Service Pack 1)
  • ImprovedPerformance Improvements:
    • SMART Estimator 2016 is 64-bit.
      This means that SMART Estimator 2016 can make use of more memory than previous versions, provided that you are using a 64-bit version of Windows.
  • ImprovedScheduling 2016 – The following improvements have been made to Scheduling:
    • Lead-In descriptions
      You can now create and customise your own list of “lead-in descriptions” through the schedule. Use these paragraphs of rich text to insert common descriptions into the start of your quotation, without having to type them.
    • Schedule cantilever (hop-up) brackets
      A new column called “Hop-Up Decks” has been added to Scheduling. You can use this column to add inside cantilever (hop-up) platforms to every lift of an independent, tied tower or circular tank, or outside platforms to every lift of a birdcage.
    • Lift creation
      In order to make creating a scaffold with the correct lifts even easier, the way that SMART Estimator creates lifts has been updated.
      • The scaffold top lift height automatically adapts by default.
        Previously, SMART Estimator created all new lifts at a height of 2m by default. For a 6m high scaffold, you saw 3 x 2m lifts. For a 7.9m high scaffold, you still saw 3 x 2m lifts. This logic works well for some scaffolding types, and not very well for others.
        Now, the top lift of the scaffold will adapt to match the maximum height required more closely.
      • Small foot lifts or base jacks no longer cause lifts to be removed.
        In previous versions, even a very small foot lift or base jack could cause the top lift to be removed from a scaffold. For example, a 4m high scaffold with a 0.09m foot lift would have only one lift: 1 x 2m. A 4m high scaffold will have 2 x 2m lifts, even if it also has a small foot lift.
      • Preferred Drop height
        The Drop Height column has been removed, and replaced by a new, simpler Preferred Drop Height column. When the preferred drop height for a scaffold is changed, the maximum allowed position of the top lift is reduced by that amount. For example, a 5m independent scaffold with a preferred drop height of 1m is created as if the elevation height was 4m.
      • Fixed column order
        The option to change the order that schedule columns appear in has been removed.
        The order of columns in the Schedule is now fixed. Working from left to right through the grid is now the best way to choose lift heights through the schedule.
      • Default scaffold heights updated
        The default height of most scaffold types has been updated. For example, all four elevations of a box scaffold are now 4m instead of 5m. Scaffolds created by default have the same number of lifts as in previous versions of SMART Estimator.
    • Creating scaffolds with the Tab key
      Scheduling has always automatically added a new independent whenever the Tab key is pressed on the final Schedule column in the Scaffolds view. This is a fast way to add scaffolds to the schedule before setting their type.
      Scheduling will now ask you whether you want to create a scaffold before adding it.
    • Wider columns and horizontal scrollbar
      • All schedule columns now show at the ‘best fit’ width by default, and can be resized as required.
      • To fit all these new columns in, a horizontal scrollbar now appears, allowing wider columns.
    • Structural Lifts
      Lifts created automatically by SMART Estimator, when the Structural Lifts (as required) schedule option is applied, are treated differently. These lifts are now considered part of the lift above. For example, for a 3m lift, a 2m structural lift will be inserted in to the scaffold. However, this lift’s height will still display as “3.00m” in the 3D model and schedule.
    • Pasting scaffolds from the schedule of future versions of SMART Estimator into this version has been disabled.
  • ImprovedQuoting – The following improvements have been made to Quoting:
    • “Exploding” SMARTText
      It is now possible to “explode” any of the quotation descriptions that were automatically created for you by SMART Estimator (SMARTText) into basic text. This means that you can now easily change a few words in a long SMARTText paragraph without retyping the whole description.
    • Lead-In descriptions
      You can now create and customise your own list of “lead-in descriptions” through the quote. Use these paragraphs of rich text to insert common descriptions into the start of your quotation, without having to type them.
    • Simpler widths and Add-on descriptions
      When all scaffolds / elevations / lifts in an item are similar, the Scaffold Width and Add-on Description SMARTText will be shorter, by not listing the scaffolds.
    • Clause rich text controls
      When entering the description for clauses and conditions in the quotation, rich text editing controls are now provided for the Description and Group.
    • Scaffold dimensions: width
      A new option is available for the Scaffold Dimensions text. The width of the scaffold can now be shown or hidden.
    • Scaffold width in boards
      The Scaffold Width SMARTText description now always describes the scaffold width by showing the number of boards wide. Previously this format was only used for Tube and Fitting.
    • Add clause button
      When customising your clauses or conditions, a new Add button can be used instead of pressing Tab after entering a description.
    • The default quotation has been updated.
      To help inspire you when customising your quotation for the first time, and to help do this more quickly and easily, the default Full Quotation has been updated to a new style.
    • Re-order quotation sections
      The order of Quotation sections can now be changed. This means it is now possible to add a new quotation section which is not at the end of your quote.
  • ImprovedCost Analysis improvements
    • The Material Supply multiplier on the item pricing report was previously located on the Materials line. This has been moved to the Material Hire price line, which excludes Contract Expenses such as transport and Material Purchase.
    • The Labour Overhead column in the pie chart report is now the sum of Labour Overhead plus Output Pay Overhead.
  • ImprovedModelling improvements – The following improvements have been made to the 3D model:
    • Copy Picture
      The Copy Picture button is now available from the Modelling tab in the Options view.
    • Loading bay sizes
      Loading bay’s lengths and widths are no longer fixed values. Instead, a loading bay may be any length or width for which the required components are configured in the Configuration tab.
    • Layher Allround components
      The following new components have been added to the Layher Allround scaffolding system:
      Bridging ledger, steel: 2m
      Bridging ledger, steel: 2.5m
      Bridging ledger, steel: 3m
      Lattice beam with 4 wedge heads, steel: 3m
    • Buttress ‘raker’ lifts
      The top ‘raker’ lift of a scheduled or single bay buttress no longer has a fixed height of 2.00m. The height can be set by hovering over the raker tubes.
  • ImprovedIf services that SMART Estimator requires are disabled, SMART Estimator will now attempt to start these at launch.
    • Double clicking the project row still opens the project as before.
  • Bug FixedFixed a crash where the maximum prefix / suffix length is exceeded;
  • Bug FixedFixed a crash where the maximum possible contract number is exceeded;
  • Bug FixedFixed a display issue where Draw Plan and BIM Toolbox red lines are too thick if no discrete graphics card is available.
  • Bug FixedFixed an issue where too many components were included in the scheduled buttress, included components which should be shared with the main scaffold.
  • Bug FixedFixed an issue where landscape PDFs imported in to BIM Toolbox were incorrectly stretched.
  • Bug FixedOn steep slopes and steps in the ground, lifts which are made up of only a single pair of standards will now include transoms and ledger bracing as expected. In addition, the lift height can now be edited.
  • Bug FixedThe PDF exports will now function correctly after installation on supported versions of Windows Server.
  • Bug FixedThe My Address SMARTText is now stored, and will be automatically re-applied when the same Windows user uses SMART Estimator, as expected. Previously this address was resetting to blank.
  • Bug FixedFixed a grammatical error in the TG20:13 advice given for attached scaffolds taller than their parent.
  • Bug FixedThe TG20:13 Compliance wind factor location selector is now laid out better on low resolution displays.
  • Bug FixedThe clauses and conditions pop-up edit controls are now sized to better fit the available space.
  • Bug FixedFixed an issue preventing the IFC export from functioning when the site address includes only a postcode.

Version 2015.0 (Build 522)
September 2014

The following enhancements have been made in this version of SMART Estimator:

  • RenamedThe software name has been changed to SMART Estimator 2015. You might notice a new loading “splash” panel when you start SMART Estimator 2015, as well as a slightly refreshed welcome screen.
  • AddedThis version of SMART Estimator 2015 now includes an integrated TG20:13 check, which checks your scaffold for TG20:13 compliance! To use this feature you must have the TG20:13 Compliance module licensed on your hardware key.
    • You must have the NEW SMART Estimator TG20:13 Compliance module licensed on your hardware key to use the TG20:13 features.
  • DiscontinuedThe Check IT and Check IT Plus modules have now been discontinued. These modules do not unlock any features in SMART Estimator 2015.
    • The NASC no longer recommends erecting scaffolding in accordance with TG20:08. This guidance has been discontinued. However, if you wish to continue using the TG20:08 check with your Check IT and Check IT Plus module licences, you must install SMART Estimator v5.31 (client only) in a separate location on your computer.
  • AddedLift shafts, Free-standing towers and Tied towers are available in Modelling and Scheduling.
    • Lift shaft towers
      • These are butted internal scaffolds, similar to birdcages.
        (Available for all scaffolding systems except Frame Scaffolding)
    • Tied towers
      • The towers may be one or two bays wide. These are similar to independents.
        (Available for all scaffolding systems)
    • Free-standing towers
      • May be one or more bays long. (Available for all scaffolding systems except Frame Scaffolding)
  • AddedThe Building Colour for rectangular birdcage elevations can now be set.
    • For example, it is now possible to hide the four elevations around a rectangular birdcage, by applying the Transparent building colour.
  • AddedGin wheels now include a diagonal brace in the ledger direction, for all systems except Frame Scaffolding.
  • AddedA new Also tie the top lift option has been added for all tie patterns in the Anchors menu. This option causes the top lift to be tied at alternate standards in addition to any other ties already present. This option is automatically applied for sheeted independents and independents with hop-up brackets, as it is required for TG20:13 compliance.
  • AddedDouble standards can now be applied to attached ladder towers, bridges and attached loading bays for Tube and Fitting.
  • AddedThe following components have been added to the Layher Allround system: 19” wide aluminium decks in sizes: 3’10”, 5’2”, 6’, 7’, 8’ and 10’.
  • AddedFor scaffolding systems which support 12-leg stair towers, these can now be created through the schedule. This is done by adding any scaffold and changing the type to “12 Leg Stair Tower”.
  • RenamedThe Loading Bay button has been replaced by Attached Loading Bay. An attached loading bay does not include any materials that would be shared with their parent scaffold.
  • RenamedThe Ladder Tower button in the schedule has been renamed Attached Ladder Tower to remove any confusion between an attached ladder tower and a free-standing tower. Scheduled attached ladder towers do not include any components which would be shared with their parent scaffold.
  • UpdatedThe wind map, used to set the TG20:13 wind factor, has been updated to include all of the factors required by TG20:13, including the seasonal factor, topography and surroundings.
  • UpdatedIt is now possible to add brick guards through Scheduling.
  • UpdatedIt is now possible to add 8-leg stairs through Scheduling.
  • UpdatedThe Scaffold Dimensions description now includes some new options:
    • The number of lifts can now be included or excluded from the description.
    • The elevation height can now be included or excluded from the description.
  • UpdatedThe scaffold types shown in the schedule toolbar can be changed by using the new ‘scroll’ buttons.
  • ImprovedProjects created in previous versions of SMART Estimator are now automatically optimised. This improves the performance throughout SMART Estimator 2015. Projects saved in SMART Estimator 2015 are slightly smaller as a result.
  • Bug FixedA bug was fixed which caused the word “Welcome” and a checkbox in the bottom right to sometimes be partially off-screen on the welcome screen.
  • Bug FixedA bug which sometimes caused the Main Lift Height in the schedule to reset to “Varies” immediately after changing the value has been corrected.
  • Issue FixedTube and Fitting loading bays no longer include plan bracing if suitable wing bracing is already present on the same lift.
  • Issue FixedThe tie pattern for Tube and Fitting cantilever fans has been corrected.
  • Issue FixedSingle scaffold items now only generate a single page of drawings, rather than repeating.
  • Issue FixedPDF site plan files with a capitalised extension will now be imported correctly.

SMART Estimator 2014 and below

Digital construction of the Release Notes for this section has been put on hold due to the priority being reallocated to the development of the SMART Estimator Help Center.

If you wish to view the Release Notes for SMART Estmator version 5.31 and below, click on the button below.



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