D-Tools

D-Tools System Integrator v24: Key Features and Updates

D-Tools System Integrator v24 introduces a transformative Multi-user Mode enabling simultaneous collaboration on the same project by multiple users through automatic server saving without check-in/out, enhancing efficiency for large-scale bids and tight deadlines, while maintaining single-user access for Visio and AutoCAD integrations, alongside other new features like item arrangement within projects.

With the release of SI v24, D-Tools has delivered what is described as a genuine game-changer. Combined with recent enhancements, SI is now firmly established as a go-to enterprise-level software platform in the market. The development team remains committed to continuous innovation, evolving SI to meet the needs of the market sector and existing user base.

For those ready to upgrade from a prior version of SI, the Customer Success team is available for assistance. For those considering acquiring D-Tools SI software, the Account Management team can provide more information.


Multi-user Mode

SI now allows multiple users to work on the same project simultaneously. Important considerations for this workflow change include:

  1. 1.All SI Projects must be checked into your SI Server.
  2. 2.All active SI sessions will be disconnected once this selection is saved. Users will then reconnect to enter Multi-user mode.

After enabling Multi-user mode, there is no more checking in and out of Projects. Simply save and close the Project, and the file will be automatically stored on the server. Multiple SI users can now actively collaborate on a single SI Project, which is especially helpful for large-scale design-build bids or projects with tight deadlines.

A new Sessions icon in the lower-left corner of the Project editor shows who is actively working on the Project.

Note on Visio and AutoCAD integration: Users working in either design environment will still check out a single Project drawing file as usual. Multi-user options for design environments are being explored, but for now, single-user access remains in place.

The first version of the Project that is saved and closed will be the active file in the Project Explorer. Any efforts to save after this will prompt users to reopen the dialog. This feature increases project bid turnaround time, fosters collaboration, and helps reduce errors.


Arrange Items in an SI Project

A long-awaited feature, SI now has an Arrange Items feature available in the Project Explorer. Users can now choose their desired order of items in the Project list, offering flexibility in bill of materials (BOM) presentation.

Once selected, users see a screen that repopulates their BOM into a new view where they can choose the presentation order. Alongside standard Move Up and Move Down buttons, a new Move To Row option allows users to assign a row number directly to any selected item, speeding up the arrangement of large BOMs.

Once the preferred arrangement is achieved, click Save and Close to see the results in the Project Editor view. Arrange Items designations will transfer from the source Project to new ones when cloning prior Projects for new bids. The Arrange Items feature in SI Reports is still available and now linked to the Arrange Items for the Project view.


Improved Layouts

Improvements to Layouts in SI occur with almost every product release. For example, a Change Order Layout in the SI Project Editor now allows users to see all relevant information related to Change Order data directly in the SI Project, including CO number, CO name, CO Type, and CO Approved Date.

Users are encouraged to review new Product Release Notes for each version to stay updated on such enhancements.


Looking Ahead: SI v24 and Beyond

Recent years have seen significant updates and enhancements to the System Integrator platform. D-Tools continues to address real-world challenges faced by system integrators, with future updates reflecting this commitment.

To experience D-Tools System Integrator software, users are encouraged to request a demonstration or explore the full range of utilization with the PSG training and implementation team.


For assistance, the Professional Services Group of SI and integration industry veterans is available. More information on other features of SI can be found in the press release about D-Tools v24, on the YouTube channel, and in online support documentation. Detailed information about v24 is also available through upcoming Gold Support Webinars and SI training with the PSG team.

D-Tools is committed to ensuring user success with their product and encourages users to check back for more updates on System Integrator software.