This is a great request. "Intools" (typically spelled INtools or Intergraph INtools , now part of Hexagon’s SmartPlant suite) is a powerful but complex instrumentation engineering tool. A helpful feature needs to address its common pain points: data synchronization, bulk editing, user training, and integration with other systems. Here is the most helpful feature I would design for INtools (SmartPlant Instrumentation - SPI): Feature Name: "Smart Bulk Editor & Cross-Reference Validator" What it does: A single, spreadsheet-like interface that allows you to edit multiple instrument records (from Index data to Loop Drawings) offline or online , while automatically checking for broken cross-references in real-time . Why this is desperately needed: Currently, making a change in INtools (e.g., moving a tag from one loop to another, changing a line number, or modifying a I/O address) requires navigating 4-5 different modules (Index, Loop, Wiring, Hookups). It's easy to break a link between the Instrument Index and the Loop Drawing or between the Junction Box and the DCS I/O card. How the "Smart Bulk Editor & Validator" would work:
Excel-Like Grid View:
Select 50 instrument tags in the Index module. Click "Launch Bulk Editor." All attributes (Tag, P&ID, Service, Line Size, I/O Address, Loop Number, Panel Number) appear in sortable/filterable columns.
Real-Time Cross-Reference Validation:
As you type a new Loop Number, the tool instantly checks: "Does this Loop Number exist? Does it match the Loop Drawing template?" As you change a I/O Address, it checks: "Is this address already used by another tag? Is it within the card's valid range?" Visual cues: Green border (valid), Red border (conflict), Yellow border (warning – e.g., "This loop number is valid but belongs to a different area").
Offline Editing Mode (Game-Changer):
Use case: A field engineer does a walkdown with a tablet, no network connection. They export a subset of data (e.g., "All Pressure Transmitters on Unit 100") as a local file. They edit tags, add notes, mark redlines offline . Back in the office: One-click "Sync & Validate." The tool only uploads changed fields and flags any conflicts (e.g., "Tag 100-PT-101: You changed the line number, but the P&ID was revised. Override or cancel?"). intools software
Bulk Action Templates:
"Change all Rosemount transmitters to Endress+Hauser" – Select tags, pick "Replace Manufacturer," done. "Reassign all I/O addresses for Loop 100-LOOP-01" – Select range, click "Auto-address starting at card 1 slot 0."
Auto-Generated Report of Impact:
Before saving, it shows: "You changed 15 tags. This will impact: 3 Loop Drawings, 1 Junction Box Wiring Diagram, 2 Instrument Installation Details. Approve changes?"
Bonus Feature: "Legacy Import Assistant" For teams migrating from Excel or older tools to INtools: