Getting started

Vectorworks basics

Installing Vectorworks products

The Vectorworks installation program lists the installation system requirements, any known installation issues, and any information that changed in the software after final online help was produced. To ensure a smooth installation, confirm that system requirements are met and take note of any issues or incompatibilities prior to installing the software.

The installation program installs the entire Vectorworks series of programs, and determines which products to allow access to based on the serial number.

The installation process includes an option to add content to your copy of Vectorworks products, including industry-specific content libraries that can be added to drawings through the Resource Manager (see Concept: Resource libraries). If you opt not to download this content when you install Vectorworks, it can be added later (see Installing Vectorworks libraries locally).

Another option allows Vectorworks to collect usage data for software improvement. You can select the type and amount of data collected, and change this setting at any time, from the Vectorworks preferences: Session pane in the Vectorworks application.

Your software license allows for one copy to be made for backup purposes. The Vectorworks application should be backed up on a regular basis. These backups are invaluable in restoring user-customized settings that may be potentially lost by computer failure.

Student and evaluation versions of Vectorworks products include an additional step at installation: selection of an area of design that best describes the kind of work to be done. This is so that the most relevant default workspace displays on product launch. For instance, if lighting design is selected as the primary use, the Spotlight workspace opens. The entire Design Suite product line is available and the workspace can be changed in the Tools > Workspaces menu regardless of how the question is answered.

The first time you launch Vectorworks after installation, depending on your license type and internet access, you may be required to sign in to your existing Vectorworks account, or to create an account if you don't have one. After the initial launch, you can sign out/in and access your account information on the upper-right corner of the Menu bar.

To view the license agreement, on Windows, select Help > About Vectorworks, or on Mac select Vectorworks > About Vectorworks. Then click License.