When a Prodev project is saved, it is by default stored as a Data file. However it can also be saved as a Template. A Template is useful if you are using common headings and values in your projects and wish to avoid having to key in such information every time you create a new project.
When you start a new project in Prodev, the items in the Data List are generic requiring you to re-title them to suit the context of your project. For instance you may frequently use ‘Initial Payment’ for ‘Planning fee’ and ‘Initial Payment 2’ for ‘Survey fee’. When using a template you can set up a customised format using your preferred titles and values and then re-use it every time you wish to perform an appraisal of that type thus saving the extra work of re-entering the same information each time.
The only difference between a Data file and a Template is that the filename is ignored when a Template is opened so that when you come to save it you will be prompted for an entirely new filename thus avoiding the risk of overwriting the original Template.
Creating a Prodev Template
Either open Prodev or use the File New menu option to create a new appraisal. Use the Data List functions to provide the preferred titles that you wish to use. You can also provide default values but we would recommend that you do not do this as these figures may be subject to change. You could also set preferences as to metric or imperial use and provide different VAT rates if using the program outside the UK.
Once you have provided the required information select the ‘Save File As’ option on the Data List File menu. This will display the Save File dialog box. Use the ‘Save as type’ dropdown (usually located below the filename entry) to select ‘Version 4 Template’ and click the ‘Save’ button.
Notice that Data files and Templates have different file extensions so that they can be listed separately. Prodev Version 4 Data files have the extension .P4F and Templates have the extension .P4T
Opening a Prodev Template
In reality you never actually open a Prodev template, you merely use its data as the basis of a new project. Use the ‘Open Template’ option on the Data List File menu to display files of this type (or use ‘Open File’ along with the ‘Files of Type’ dropdown and select ‘Version 4 Template’).
Notice that Data files and Templates have different file extensions so that they can be listed separately. Prodev Version 4 Data files have the extension .P4F and Templates have the extension .P4T
Having selected your chosen template click the ‘Open’ button. A new project will be created using the information from the selected template.
Using the Desktop for Templates
If you save your Template file to the ‘Desktop’ then your Template will appear as an icon on the Windows Desktop (the main screen you look at when using Windows generally). This allows you to open both Prodev and the Template in one action, simply by double-clicking on the Template icon.
This method is only recommended where you mainly want to use a single Template for most schemes. If you plan to use several Templates for different building types (or for different clients) you will find it more useful to save your Templates in the same place as your Data files.