I'm relatively new to SQL and have only played with the SQL prompt inside of ArchiCAD. You can really get some informative results without having to set up special listing routine or Interactive Schedules
Access and Filemaker have a Query or SQL wizard, that will create the sql for you. (Although it pays to know a little)
I have used the ODBC engine and Filemaker to create energy rating forms (with relevant data gained from ArchiCAD), bills of quantities, Rapid estimating Databases, Furniture schedules, finish schedules, etc etc.
Like I said, if you have a bit of experience in Databases, the ODBC engine is the go. It will let you do ANY sort of calculation on the raw ArchiCAD data. (yes you can get into library part parameters) But be prepared
. I think I have about 40 separate tables of data (from the pln) all linked to each other. Do not attempt this with filemaker 6.0. It would be possible but you would need 40 completely separate files. Access would handle it NPGood luck
lagodue said
2 Redesign the entire thing to be as easy to do as something in FileMaker (former Claris product.)
just use filemaker!!!!
I am using Calculation for certain purposes. One is to create Zone lists for the Building permit phase of the design.
The other is a similar one, but a more complex one. It involves writing out data to files, then regenerating the list during which phase it reads back data from those files and creates the list. This is used in Marketing materials for apartments. I attach one such page.
From data of the Zone, I generate text strings like the exact location of a flat (City, street, number, floor etc.), the number of rooms/half rooms/balconies, and various other data needed for marketing documents. These string are then displayed in the list. One such page is made for each apartment.
So we use it quite extensively. But it required creating special zone stamps and creating special graphic templates.
PS.: Sorry, the attached stuff is in Hungarian
The other is a similar one, but a more complex one. It involves writing out data to files, then regenerating the list during which phase it reads back data from those files and creates the list. This is used in Marketing materials for apartments. I attach one such page.
From data of the Zone, I generate text strings like the exact location of a flat (City, street, number, floor etc.), the number of rooms/half rooms/balconies, and various other data needed for marketing documents. These string are then displayed in the list. One such page is made for each apartment.
So we use it quite extensively. But it required creating special zone stamps and creating special graphic templates.
PS.: Sorry, the attached stuff is in Hungarian
