Same grid/level datum - different phases

[phoulx]

Two different projects I've got right now have a similar issue and might have a similar solution.

Project one: Base bid is three bays wide with an entry on the west incorporating columns on grid line A. Alternate bid has one additional bay on the west side with the entry and columns moving to that exterior wall. I've used Phases to differentiate the work. Is it possible/advisable to have two grid line A's - one as base bid and one as alternate bid? I was in a hurry and simply cheated by creating an A and A.ALT initially but would like to be able to do it right- two column line A.

Project two: Base bid has foundations at one depth assigned to level "basement". Alternate bid has the same foundations simply at a shallower elevation. Again, can I have two levels called "basement" or should I just play it safe and have a "basement alt" level. I can imagine this becoming a pain with my wall base constraints. Either way, my details will become a whole separate piece of work.

[gbrowne]

Since levels and grids are not phase specific and cannot share the same names, I think not. What about using a prefix A1 - B1 etc for options. Anything really to differentiate.

Also, never heard of the phrase 'bid' outside of an auction. What is it?

[phoulx]

The different name has been the path I was taking so far. A & A.ALT, Basement and Basement Alt. I was hoping for an "easy button" to show the two different options.

Bids is for contractor pricing. After design drawings are issued, whichever contractor has the lowest bid (generally), wins the job. In the case of my basement example, there are different construction methods involved as well as the obvious material differences. We design it twice, the cheapest version get built. I'm sure you've got a similar process with different names.

[markusb]

Sounds like you should be using design options, not phasing.

[phoulx]

Thanks! Design options works perfectly for two column line A's. I haven't tried this on my other project with the two basements as that has become irrelevant.