What's an MSI package?
An MSI Package is an alternate way of installing On-Screen Takeoff or Quick Bid that is used by IT and Network administrators to remotely install a product, typically without the user's intervention.
How to use the MSI Package to install OST or QB
There are two ways to use an MSI Package.
Attended Installation
Attended installations are not possible with the MSI. Please use the normal "EXE" installer.
If you attempt to install the MSI Package by double-clicking it, your installation will fail because the installation requires the "Administrator Token" for your machine (you'll see a warning screen that reads "You must run this installer as an Administrator).
Silent Installation
Typically, this is why an organization uses the MSI Package - so the IT department (or whoever handles workstation configuration) can "push out" installations or upgrades to OST or QB without the end user having to download and run the installer themselves. This way, the IT department knows that each workstation is getting updated so there is less risk of users running different versions of the software.
You (IT person) can write a script that gets run when a user logs in that will download the MSI Package to a user's computer, and then perform a "silent" installation. The end user will not know the software is being installed/upgraded, they'll simply have the new product/version at the ready next time they want to run it.
If you are not 100% confident in your scripting skills, it's best to distribute the the "EXE" along with instructions on how to install the product or run an upgrade to your end users.
Even with "Silent" installations, it is vital you communicate your actions to your end users so they don't try to run the software before or while an upgrade is happening.
The MSI Package must be run as a local, machine Administrator.
See Using an MSI Package to Perform a Silent Installation for more information on scripting a Silent Install.
Where do I get the MSI Package(s)
The MSI Packages for On-Screen Takeoff and Quick Bid are available by contacting our Technical Support department. See: Getting Help and Contacting Support, Training, and Customer Success.
Support will verify your needs and the version you require and e-mail you a download link.
Important Notes!
On Center/ConstructConnect does not provide technical assistance with writing install scripts or troubleshooting MSI Package installations.
You must consult a qualified network professional for assistance with installing in your unique environment.
Failure to run the MSI Package as an Administrator will result in a failed/unworkable installation.