Smart Tools Overview

Many of the programs we design, build, and maintain fit into a category called smart tools – versus productivity tools that batch changes, like Project Final. With smart tools, the user’s input is usually directed through a GUI. Dimensional parameters and properties are controlled through this interface. And, almost always there is extended data added to the drawn entities (elements in MicroStation). This extended data can be reported, and it can be used to automate subsequent drawing actions. In the following sections we will highlight specific smart tools to demonstrate how add-ins can automate and standardize work process.