The VPE Toolset
VPE-related features are accessed through the VPE Toolset, which is accessed from the Tools menu at the top of the main aPriori client.
To access the VPE Toolset
1 In the aPriori client, click Tools>VPE Toolset.
This displays the aPriori VPE Toolset window.
2 Use the VPE Toolset to access:
• VPE Manager – Use this tool to update VPE data, such as materials, machines, rates, defaults, and variables. This is covered primarily in the next chapter, VPE Manager.
• Cost Model Workbench – Use this tool to build or edit cost models, modify VPE logic, and configure custom inputs and outputs. This module is licensed separately and is documented in the aPriori Cost Model Workbench Guide.
• Process Group Site Variables – Use this tool to modify site variables for process groups, which impact how GCDs are analyzed by aPriori when it generates cost estimates for all the VPEs in the deployment. This is covered in Chapter 4, Process Group Site Variables.
• Deployment Data Administration – Use this tool to manage active currencies and exchange rates, set the default VPE for each process group, and configure display names for cost outputs. This is covered in Chapter 5, Deployment Data Administration.
• BOM Loader – Use this tool to import bills of materials and populate your aPriori database with components and cost data. This module is licensed separately. This is covered in Chapter 6, BOM Loader.
3 The File and Tools menus provide access to specific actions that are appropriate to your current location. Items on these menus are added and removed (or enabled and disabled) depending on where you are within the VPE Toolset options. For example, here are the options available on the Files > Export menu at the top level of the VPE Toolset window and the VPE Manager:
