Choose between a custom concept and a standard product
SketchUp offers 3D modelling for designing and communicating geometry; its desktop product also supports extensions and reports. This suits an evaluation involving site context or a custom design. A product configurator evaluation focuses on choosing from the manufacturer's range and preparing the corresponding commercial specification.
Introduce an obstruction at the mounting wall
Model a wall return or existing column that affects the proposed pergola. Ask the designer to explore a solution and the salesperson to quote the closest permitted catalogue product. Record where the concept departs from available dimensions, mounting choices or components. Compare how each workflow identifies the exception and passes it for review.
Keep the concept and quoted product linked
Configurix's Elite Aluminum project combines pergola and sunroom configuration with automatic item-SKU quotes. For your project, request the record connecting a custom concept to the quoted range and dimensions. Decide who approves departures from the catalogue and how the final proposal identifies them. Include the actual SketchUp extensions in the comparison where they perform relevant work.
Implementation checklist
- Custom concept versus catalogue product
- Obstruction scenario
- Nonstandard choices identified
- Reviewed design matches quote