This is an important module and is organized to help you fully understand how Item IDs and Locations work together and how to effectively use them to streamline your design process. Please refer to the reference material below alongside the associated video.
The Relationship Between Item IDs and Locations
The relationship between Item IDs and Locations is the foundation of efficient project management. Item IDs act as a centralized hub for storing details relevant to multiple Locations, while Locations provide flexibility when unique details are required. Understanding this connection is key to maintaining consistency and flexibility in your workflow.
How Item IDs Simplify the Process
Centralized Information: Item IDs store all the details needed for their assigned Locations, eliminating the need to manage each Location individually.
Consistency: By assigning multiple Locations to the same Item ID, you ensure uniformity across similar elements.
Efficiency: This streamlined approach saves time and reduces errors by consolidating information.
Key Components of Item IDs
Item IDs consolidate all essential information for the assigned Locations, including:
Primary Item: The main item applied to the Locations.
Dependent Items: Items tied to the Primary Item for relevance.
Options: Variations or customizations related to the Primary Item.
Specifications: Additional images or diagrams for installation, care, or design details.
Documents: Technical information, installation guidelines, or care instructions attached to the Item ID.
Alternative Items: Provides Alternative selections for this Item ID.
Let's look at the different components that make up the Item ID.
Understanding Item Types: Primary Item, Dependent Item, and Options
Primary Item
Definition: The main item associated with the Item ID.
Example: Tile: Artistic Tile, A Train, White, Matte, 5” x 10” x 3/8”, Ceramic
Dependent Item
Definition: An item that depends on the Primary Item for relevance and context (typically with its own SKU). It's dependent on the Primary Item, if the Primary Item changes most often the Dependent Item changes also.
Example: Grout: Ardex FL Grout, Fresh Lily, 10 lb Sanded Grout
Options
Definition: Customizations or variations related to the Primary Item, from the same manufacturer that are required to order or define the Item you wish to select.
Example: Fireplace: Heat & Glo True Series Fireplace (Primary Item) with interior panels (Options). You cant order the Fireplace without selecting the required options.
Note: Options like panel type can be stored in the ‘Specifications & Options’ Catalog and linked to the Manufacturer. When adding an option to the Item ID, ensure it is selected before ordering. Without a selected option, the order may be incomplete.
Specifications
Purpose: Specifications add clarity to the Item ID through detailed diagrams, images, or notes.
Example: A Fry Reglet specification may include precise installation details or unique design features.
Storage: Specifications can be uploaded to the ‘Specifications & Options’ Catalog for future use across multiple projects. (see catalog module 9)
Documents
Purpose: Attach documents to an Item ID or Location to ensure every detail of your design intent is clearly communicated.
Example: Store a detailed diagram or document that communicates any information required, such as a Shop Drawing.
Locations
A Location inherits all the properties of the Item ID it’s connected to, including:
Primary Item
Dependents
Options
Specifications
Documents
Alternatives
However, Locations can also have unique information when necessary.
Location-Specific Information Includes:
Location Notes
Installation Notes
Documents (specific to the Location)
Specifications (uploaded or selected from the Library)
Important Note: Where to store Specifications and Documents.
Example:
If a tile location has the same layout in every location attached to the Item ID then store the layout at the Item ID.
If the tile location has a unique layout for that location and it differs from another location at the same Item ID then store the layout at the Location.
Prop Tip: If you have 20 locations, 10 with 1 layout and 10 with another, create two Item ID's add the same Item to the ID and save the Layout at the Item ID. This way each set of 5 locations has the correct Layout.
Alternative Items
When presenting designs to clients, it’s often helpful to provide Alternative Items to give them flexibility.
These alternatives are stored with the Item ID for quick reference during discussions and presentations.
Alternatives ensure you’re prepared to meet client preferences without compromising the design process.
Selections Module (Coming Summer 2025)
We’re actively developing a ‘Selections Module’ to enhance collaboration with your clients. This feature will offer a professional, intuitive interface for making final selections, streamlining the decision-making process and improving the client experience. Stay tuned!
The Design Process challenges we have addressed in this module.
Keeping information connected: Item IDs serve as the connection point for all relevant information, creating structure and making it easy to locate related details. Selected items consist of multiple components—attributes, specifications, technical documentation, and more. By maintaining a structured approach, Design.efficiently ensures that all item-related data is easily accessible, organized, and connected for seamless reference
Powerful Item ID's: Remeber, Item IDs act as the essential link between Locations and Catalog Items, unlocking powerful functionality across the platform. They ensure consistency, streamline updates, and provide the flexibility needed to efficiently manage project details.
Alternative Selections: Flexibility at Your Fingertips: Having a dedicated and convenient place to store alternative selections ensures that you’re always prepared with backup options for clients, teams, and stakeholders.
This feature allows you to:
Quickly offer variations without disrupting the workflow.
Ensure client satisfaction by providing multiple choices for materials, finishes, or products.
Streamline decision-making, making it easier to compare options side by side.
Quickly offer variations without disrupting the workflow.
Maintain project momentum, reducing delays caused by last-minute changes or unavailable items.
By keeping alternative selections organized and easily accessible, you can enhance efficiency, collaboration, and flexibility throughout the design process.
Specifications: For a project to be executed flawlessly, the construction team needs precise, detailed information to correctly install the selected items. Specifications play a crucial role in ensuring that every detail—materials, dimensions, finishes, installation methods, and technical requirements—is clearly communicated.
Without proper specifications, misinterpretations can lead to errors, delays, and costly rework. By providing a structured and accessible repository for all specifications, Design.efficiently ensures that every stakeholder has the information they need, exactly when they need it.
Collaboration for a Smoother Design Process
Working as a cohesive team rather than tackling tasks in isolation marks a major improvement in the design process. With Design.efficiently, team members—including designers, clients, and construction professionals—can collaborate effortlessly in a shared workspace.
This collaborative approach offers:
• Real-time access to specifications for accurate installation.
• Seamless communication between the design and construction teams.
• Reduced miscommunication by keeping everyone aligned.
• Faster project execution by ensuring all materials and requirements are properly documented.
With Design.efficiently, specifications are no longer scattered across emails, spreadsheets, or outdated documents. Instead, they are centralized, structured, and easily accessible, empowering teams to execute projects with precision, efficiency, and confidence.
New Skills Covered:
Management and understanding of Item ID' and Location Specifications.
Management of Dependent Items, Item Specifications & Options, Documents and Alternative Items.
Next Module: Design 8: The Room-by-Room : Finishes