Standard Options

Standard Options allows the user to build a table of frequently used options from which Spec can automatically option parts. This can help the user to option an entire SIF file quickly and accurately by automatically using the same options on records that contain the same Part Number, Mfg code, or Tag(s).

Standard Options has a new set of buttons in plain sight directly below the Selected Options table.

New projects will load with a blank StandardOption table. Previous projects will load with the standards previously used for that project. You can still save and load if you want to share standards between projects, computers, or users.

You can now add rules to the options before they are added to the table, so the user does not need to edit the data after it has been entered.

For each entry, the Standard Option table has fields for Part Number, Mfg code, and user-defined Tags. The information in these fields defines the circumstances under which Standard Option applies options to a record. Standard Option gives priority to more specific entries (i.e. the entries with more fields filled in). For example, if no fields are filled, Standard Option will apply the option to every record in the SIF file that can support the option. However, if a different entry in the table has a Mfg code filled in, all records in the SIF with that Mfg code will receive the option from that entry instead of the first. Likewise, if an entry has a Part Number, Tag, or a combination of fields filled in, Standard Option will give priority to the option in this entry when it finds a record that matches the criteria.

Creating a Standard Option Table

1. Select available options in the catalog reader.
2. Choose which options you want to add:
   • "Add All" Selected Options
   • CTRL+Left-Click desired options and choose "Add Selected"
3. Choose how you want the selected option(s) to be added to the table.
   • "Add to General Standards" - This means if the option code and description are available on another item, regardless of the part or catalog, it will apply the options.
   • "Add with Criteria" - This means that the option will ONLY be added if it matches the rules you have specified in the table by placing a check in the corresponding rule type. NOTE: A wildcard * may be used when editing the rules.

Auto Options

Auto Option is a feature used while Optioning a part. Fabric and trim colors are often the same on a single part, even if the manufacturer allows the user to specify different colors or trims. Auto Option allows Spec to reapply your choice automatically on a single part. For example, if you select a certain color fabric, Auto Option will automatically make sure all other fabric color selections for the same part are identical. This only applies to the option selections on a single record, it is not universal for the entire project.

It can also be found in the Options Tab by clicking the Check box. Note: Many users turn Auto Option on and leave it on. If you need two different fabrics or trims on the same part, remember that Auto Option must be turned OFF.