Compare is a powerful tool used for comparing existing layouts to new layouts when working on reconfiguration projects. Know what you need to order, what can be re-used and what will be left over- accurately and reliably. Available through Worksheet, Compare is an essential tool to help you manage the evolution of the office industry.
Add Files to Compare:
Start by selecting the worksheets representing the layouts that you want to compare and add them to the dialog by pressing the ... button and selecting the appropriate file. Inventory files are most often added to the existing list, but multiple files can be added to either list. New files commonly represent the required new or reconfigured space.
Delete one or more files from either list by selecting the blue X icon next to the file name.
Choose Comparison Criteria:
Select the criteria required for the comparison by checking the boxes. Remember that the finer the comparison criteria, the more specific the product to be used.
Here are some commonly used comparison criteria examples:
- Mfg. Code + Part Number
Includes manufacturer + part number only. Select this option when a specific part number is required, but a specific finish or option is not required.
- Mfg. Code + Part Number + Option Number
Includes manufacturer + part number + option number only. Select this option when a specific part number is required AND a specific finish or option is required.
- Mfg. Code + Cat. Code + Part Number
Includes manufacturer + catalog + part number only. Select this option when a specific part number from a specific catalog is required, but a specific finish or option is not required.
- Mfg. Code + Cat. Code + Part Number + Option Number
Includes manufacturer + catalog + part number + option number only. Select this option when a specific part number from a specific catalog is required AND a specific finish or option is required.
Comparison Options:
Most projects will require comparison of products at their most basic level. User will want to check Flatten Standards or Flatten Panels if they are using standards or panel configs in the existing layout or new layout. Flattening standards and panels will allow both to be broken into their component parts for comparison. Each checkbox can be selected independently of the other.
Save Results to:
Chose the location where you want the resulting files to be saved by selecting the … More Options button next to each category. Common names are provided for the resulting files, but users can also provide their own by modifying the name.
The compare tool can create the following output files: By default, all are enabled, but you can remove the check mark next to any of them if you do not wish that particular output file to be created.
- Order – This will contain the items you will need to order to meet the new layout requirement.
Reuse – Contains the items that can be reused in the new layout from the existing files.
- Not Uses – Contains the items that will be left over once the new layout is installed.
Report - Creates a CSV summary report for the compare in .CSV format.
The Save button can be used to save your compare settings into a configuration file, that you could later use at another time or on another project by using the Load button.
Compare - Click the compare button when ready to run the compare based upon all the above settings.