Introduction
Inspired Query (IQ) in AECInspire is a powerful tool that allows users to interact with their project documents using natural language queries. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for accessing IQ, using its different versions, and effectively prompting it for accurate project information.
Learning More About Prompting
If you're new to prompting or want to improve your query skills, we recommend checking out the following resources:
These videos provide a strong foundation for understanding how to ask IQ precise and effective questions. There is also great information on prompting and other use cases you may find valuable.
General Prompting Formula:
[Context] + [Specific Information] + [Intent/Goal] + [Response Format (if needed)] = Perfect Prompt
Accessing Inspired Query (IQ)
Step 1: Open a Project in AECInspire
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Log in to AECInspire and open your project.
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Ensure that a sheet (such as a floor plan or specification document) is open.
Step 2: Locate the IQ Icon
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In the bottom-left corner of the sheet view, find the IQ logo.
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Click on the IQ icon to open the IQ chat window.
Step 3: Expanding the IQ Window
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The IQ chat window can be expanded for better visibility of text and responses.
Understanding IQ Versions
IQ 1.0 (Project-Wide Search)
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IQ 1.0 accesses all folders and sheets within your project.
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It can search specification sets, floor plans, and any uploaded documentation.
IQ 2.0 (Sheet-Specific Search - Beta Version)
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IQ 2.0 only searches the sheet currently open in the viewer.
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This version is in early beta and will receive future updates.
Basic Prompting in IQ
Step 1: Framing Your Question
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Think of prompting as having a conversation with your project.
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If you are unfamiliar with AI chat models, check out AECInspire’s Knowledge Hub for additional training materials.
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Provide clear and detailed instructions for better responses.
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Example: "As an electrical contractor, what wire types are allowed on this project per the specifications?"
Step 2: Reviewing IQ’s Response
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IQ will provide an answer based on uploaded project documents.
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It will also indicate where the information was found.
Step 3: Refining Your Query
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To get more detailed information, refine your query.
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Example: "Where in the project specifications did you find this information? List exact pages or sections."
Example Prompts
Finding Wire Specifications
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"As an electrical estimator, what wire sizes and types are allowed in this project per the specifications?" (Ensures the response is tailored to estimating needs.)
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"Where in the specifications can I find the wire type requirements? List exact references to assist in my bid preparation."
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"List the sheets where wire specifications are mentioned so I can quickly verify material compliance."
Locating Lighting Fixture Information
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"As a Project Manager, what lighting fixtures are specified for this project so I can ensure procurement aligns with the design?"
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"Where is the lighting fixture schedule located so I can communicate with the procurement team?"
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"List all lighting fixtures from the legend with their specifications to help with installation planning."
Managing Conversations in IQ
Step 1: Starting a New Chat
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Click the ‘New Chat’ button to reset the conversation.
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Note: Starting a new chat clears the previous conversation history (this will change in future updates).
Step 2: Keeping Queries Organized
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Each new conversation should focus on a single topic.
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Example: One chat for wire specifications, another for lighting fixtures.
Copying and Exporting Information
Step 1: Copying IQ Responses
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Select the response text in IQ.
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Click ‘Copy’ to save it to your clipboard.
Step 2: Pasting Data into Other Applications
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Paste IQ responses into Excel, Word, or project documentation.
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Use this for addendums, comparisons, or project reports.
Security Considerations
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IQ only searches within your project and does not access external sources.
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Your project data remains private and secure within AECInspire.
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If IQ is asked to research a topic, it will only use relevant project documents unless directed otherwise.
Next Steps
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For more advanced training, check out AECInspire’s Knowledge Hub.
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The next training session will cover creating tables in IQ and using more advanced prompting techniques.
Happy Searching!