SimpleStruct
ConstructiVision Modernization 2026¶
Status Report | February 25, 2026 | Chad Weidert
Project Health¶
Schedule |
Scope |
Budget |
Quality |
Resources |
Phase |
Complete |
Target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
🟢 Ahead |
🟢 Baselined |
🟢 Under Budget |
🟢 Validated |
🟡 Solo Dev |
P1c✅/P2 |
80% |
Dec 31 |
Schedule Impact: ~2 months ahead of schedule. P1 (Analysis) ✅ complete. P1c (Integration & Bug Fixing) ✅ complete — 17 bugs found and fixed, all tracked via GitHub Issues. P2 (Design) ▶️ active — alpha testing running, several GUI improvements already shipped. Installation validated across ALL operating systems (XP through Win10 x64) with AutoCAD 2000; Win10 x64 is compatible with Win11 x64 — no additional work needed. WiX installer development permanently sidelined — Autodesk App Store accepts compiled VLX uploads directly with a wizard-based submission process, eliminating the need for a standalone MSI installer. Total Uninstall continues to handle VM deployment. NanoCAD integration attempted but failed (incompatible extension mechanism). AutoCAD 2000 running on Win10 x64 via WoW64 registry fix — an unsupported path by Autodesk, but fully functional.
2026 Roadmap¶
Legend: 🟢 Complete | 🔵 In Progress | 🔴 Behind | ⬜ Planned | Today: Feb 25 ↓ | Variance: ~2 Months Ahead
💰 Budget Impact Update (Feb 25)¶
Key Discovery: Autodesk App Store accepts compiled VLX uploads directly with a wizard-based submission process. This permanently sidelines the WiX installer effort — no standalone MSI needed.
Code Signing is still required for App Store submission:
Installer Tool:
WiX= NOT NEEDED — Autodesk App Store handles distributionCode Signing: OV = $200/yr | EV = $400/yr (required for App Store)
Total 2026 Distribution Cost: $200/year (OV signing only — no installer tool needed)
Phase |
Jan |
Feb |
Mar |
Apr |
May |
Jun |
Jul |
Aug |
Sep |
Oct |
Nov |
Dec |
‘27 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
P1: Analysis |
🟢 |
🟢 |
|||||||||||
P1B: Installer |
❌ |
||||||||||||
P1C: Integration |
🟢 |
🟢 |
|||||||||||
P2: Design |
🔵 |
🔵 |
|||||||||||
P3: Security |
⬜ |
⬜ |
⬜ |
⬜ |
⬜ |
||||||||
P4: Release |
⬜ |
⬜ |
⬜ |
||||||||||
Web Dev |
⬜ |
❌ P1B Permanently Sidelined: Autodesk App Store accepts compiled VLX uploads directly — no standalone MSI installer needed. Total Uninstall continues to handle VM deployment during development. This saves significant time and budget previously allocated to WiX development.
Milestones by Phase¶
P1: Analysis & Setup (Jan 21 - Feb 24)¶
Date |
Milestone |
Deliverable |
Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Jan 20 |
Installer decompiled |
setup.rul (4,163 lines) |
✅ Done |
Jan 21 |
Legacy environment baselined |
XP VM + InstallShield 5.x running |
✅ Done |
Jan 21 |
Architecture decisions documented |
Target state defined |
✅ Done |
Feb 3 |
v3.60/v7.0 gap analysis complete |
Unified source inventory |
✅ Done |
Feb 9 |
Nero installer analysis complete |
isDcc vs wizard validated |
✅ Done |
Feb 10 |
Multi-OS testing (XP/Vista/Win7) |
All 3 pass, 8 bugs cataloged |
✅ Done |
Feb 13 |
Win10 32-bit validation |
Full stack working with auto-config |
✅ Done |
Feb 13 |
P1 InstallShield Sprint |
ABORTED — low ROI, proceed to WiX |
✅ Done |
Feb 16 |
v3.60 source recovery |
12 modules recovered, 3 crashes fixed |
✅ Done |
Feb 17 |
Win10 64-bit validation |
Wow6432Node COM fix — crash-free |
✅ Done |
Feb 17 |
TB11-01x32/x64 architecture docs |
Docs 28 + 29 published |
✅ Done |
Feb 18 |
Alpha tester access |
Terry + Tai on VM 201, Dat on VM 202 |
✅ Done |
Feb 24 |
Analysis Complete |
Requirements locked + v11 spec |
✅ Done |
Key Discoveries (Week 3: Feb 3-9):
✅ Nero Study Complete: Validated InstallShield wizard approach generates clean 606-line .rul that compiles
❌ isDcc Limitation: Bytecode output (10,031 lines Nero, 4,163 lines ConstructiVision) won’t compile
� Decision: Use wizard for ConstructiVision rebuild; VLX recompilation pushed to Week 6 (Feb 24-Mar 3)
Key Discoveries (Week 4: Feb 10):
✅ CV3.60 + AC2000 installed on XP, Vista, AND Win7 — no UAC issues as Administrator
✅ 8 installer bugs cataloged — Bug 1 (profile detection) CRITICAL, Bug 2 (UAC) downgraded to LOW
✅ Complete v11 installer specification — 41 files, exact registry entries, 6 “do NOT” rules
✅ 9 monitoring data files captured via Total Uninstall, Inctrl5, Regshot across all 3 VMs
Key Discoveries (Week 5: Feb 13):
✅ Win10 32-bit: FULL STACK WORKING — AutoCAD 2000 + CV + COM automation
✅ Auto-config script created —
Configure-ConstructiVision.ps1handles HKCU registry setup✅ P1 InstallShield Sprint ABORTED — Low ROI on .rul recompilation; proceed directly to WiX
✅ Total Uninstall restore validated as deployment method for both install and payload source
Key Discoveries (Week 6: Feb 16-17):
✅ v3.60 source recovery COMPLETE — 12 missing .lsp modules recovered from v3.60 archive
✅ 3 crash paths FIXED — wd_dlg (Standard Opening), wc_dlg (Weld Connections), wall_dlg (Wall Line)
✅ TB11-01x32 deployed — 134 → 195 files, nightly auto-pull on 4 VMs (108, 109, 201, 202)
✅ Win10 64-bit: FULL STACK WORKING — Wow6432Node COM fix (103 CLSIDs, 104 Interfaces, 6 ProgIDs)
✅ Both x32 and x64 crash-free — program runs and loads drawings on both architectures
✅ Architecture docs published — Doc 28 (TB11-01x32) and Doc 29 (TB11-01x64) with full registry footprint
📌 Alpha testing ACTIVE — GSCI engineers (Terry, Tai) on VM 201; Dat on VM 202
Key Discoveries (Weeks 7-8: Feb 18-25):
✅ 17 bugs found and fixed — complete bug fixing sprint during alpha testing (see 32-tb11-bug-tracker)
✅ 2 critical serialization bugs — savelay.lsp ENAME/XData filtering + layout.lsp index bug (Bugs 16-17)
✅ 3 latent PB11 bugs discovered — existed in original production build but never triggered until new workflows
✅ GitHub Issues infrastructure — 17 issues created, 18 custom labels (severity, autolisp, serialization, version, build, arch, phase), automated sync workflow
✅ TB11-01x64 fully synced — x64 fork updated with all x32 patches including missing inspanel.lsp
✅ Autodesk App Store accepts VLX directly — wizard-based submission eliminates need for WiX/MSI installer entirely
✅ Win10 x64 compatible with Win11 x64 — no additional work required for Windows 11 support
✅ P2 Design already active — drawing type dialog, file browser fix, vla-open workflow, dirchk fix shipped
✅
#| |#block comments NOT supported — AutoCAD 2000(load)can’t parse them; reverted to;;📌 XData refactor plan created — systematic approach to ENAME/XData filtering across all serialization modules
P1b: Installer Development — ❌ PERMANENTLY SIDELINED¶
Date |
Milestone |
Deliverable |
Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Feb 13 |
Win10 32-bit validated |
Full stack working with auto-config script |
✅ Done |
Feb 13 |
Total Uninstall payload validated |
152 files, 5.5 MB as WiX source |
✅ Done |
Feb 16 |
v3.60 source recovery complete |
12 modules recovered, TB11-01x32 deployed |
✅ Done |
Feb 17 |
Win10 64-bit COM fix complete |
Wow6432Node registry fix, both arches crash-free |
✅ Done |
|
|
|
❌ Not Needed |
Impact: Autodesk App Store accepts compiled VLX uploads directly with a wizard-based submission process. This permanently eliminates the need for a standalone WiX/MSI installer — saving significant development time and the Pluralsight WiX training budget ($29). Total Uninstall continues to handle VM deployment during development. Distribution will use Autodesk’s built-in App Store packaging instead.
P1c: Integration & Bug Fixing (Feb 18 - Feb 25) — ✅ COMPLETE¶
Date |
Milestone |
Deliverable |
Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Feb 18 |
Alpha testing started |
GSCI engineers testing GUI and functionality |
✅ Done |
Feb 18 |
Path analysis complete |
40 menu paths + 20 toggles — all functional |
✅ Done |
Feb 18 |
Legacy architecture documented |
Menu → LSP → DCL mapping for entire application |
✅ Done |
Feb 22 |
Bug fixing sprint |
17 bugs found and fixed, tracked via GitHub Issues |
✅ Done |
Feb 25 |
GitHub Issues infrastructure |
Automated sync workflow, 18 custom labels |
✅ Done |
Feb 25 |
TB11-01x64 source sync |
x64 fork synced with all x32 patches |
✅ Done |
Feb 25 |
Stable baseline achieved |
All 17 bugs fixed, ready for P2 Design |
✅ Done |
Summary: 17 bugs discovered and fixed during alpha testing — including 2 critical serialization bugs, 3 latent PB11 bugs, and multiple crash-path fixes. All bugs tracked via GitHub Issues with automated sync from the bug tracker markdown. TB11-01x64 fork fully synced. Originally scheduled for April — completed ~2 months ahead.
P2: Design & GUI Improvement (Feb 25 - May 31) — ▶️ ACTIVE NOW¶
Date |
Milestone |
Deliverable |
Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Feb 25 |
UI/UX review started |
Alpha testers providing feedback on all dialogs |
▶️ Active |
Feb 25 |
Drawing type dialog added |
New choice dialog for project type selection |
✅ Done |
Feb 25 |
File browser fix |
Project browser shows .dwg files correctly |
✅ Done |
Feb 25 |
Drawing open workflow |
vla-open ActiveX integration for existing projects |
✅ Done |
Apr 21 |
Dialog modernization |
Updated DCL files with improved layouts |
⬜ Planned |
May 8 |
Code refactoring complete |
Modernized LSP/DCL where needed |
⬜ Planned |
May 22 |
Documentation complete |
User guide, install guide |
⬜ Planned |
May 31 |
Design Improvement Complete |
v26 baseline locked |
⬜ Planned |
Focus: P2 is now active — several GUI improvements already shipped during alpha testing: drawing type choice dialog, file browser fix, vla-open drawing workflow, dirchk fix, and formatting refactors. Alpha testers (Tai, Terry, Dat) continue providing feedback. Originally scheduled for May — started in February, ~2 months ahead.
P3: Security, Testing & App Store Prep (May 1 - Sep 30)¶
Date |
Milestone |
Deliverable |
Status |
|---|---|---|---|
May 15 |
AutoCAD 2026 license active |
Testing environment ready |
⬜ Planned |
Jun 15 |
Multi-version testing complete |
Works on 2024, 2025, 2026 |
⬜ Planned |
Jul 15 |
Security audit complete |
Vulnerability scan passed |
⬜ Planned |
Aug 15 |
VLX compilation & packaging |
Compile CSV.VLX from TB11 source |
⬜ Planned |
Sep 1 |
ADN Developer membership |
App Store access + submission wizard |
⬜ Planned |
Sep 15 |
App Store package validated |
VLX + metadata ready for upload |
⬜ Planned |
Sep 30 |
Security & Testing Complete |
Ready for signing and App Store submission |
⬜ Planned |
P4: Final Release & Demo (Oct 1 - Dec 31)¶
Date |
Milestone |
Deliverable |
Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Oct 15 |
VLX signed with OV certificate |
Code-signed VLX for SmartScreen trust |
⬜ Planned |
Nov 1 |
App Store submission via wizard |
VLX uploaded with metadata |
⬜ Planned |
Nov 15 |
App Store review complete |
Approved and listed |
⬜ Planned |
Dec 1 |
Direct download available |
Website + App Store distribution |
⬜ Planned |
Dec 15 |
Owner demo complete |
Handoff presentation |
⬜ Planned |
Dec 31 |
🎉 App Store Live |
v26 available |
⬜ Planned |
2027 Q1: Web Development (Post-Revenue)¶
Date |
Milestone |
Deliverable |
|---|---|---|
Jan 15 |
Web developer hired |
Begin .js/.NET conversion |
Mar 31 |
Web prototype |
Cloud version PoC |
This Week’s Progress (Feb 18-25)¶
📊 Source: CHANGELOG.md — Weeks 7-8: Bug Fixing Sprint, GitHub Issues, x64 Sync, GUI Improvements
Date |
Accomplishment |
Impact |
|---|---|---|
Feb 18 |
Drawing type choice dialog |
🏆 New project type selection workflow — GUI improvement (P2) |
Feb 19 |
File browser fix |
✅ Shows .dwg files correctly instead of .tmp |
Feb 19 |
vla-open drawing workflow |
🏆 ActiveX integration for opening existing projects |
Feb 20 |
dirchk fix |
✅ No longer blocks folders with system-like names |
Feb 20 |
Block comment revert |
✅ |
Feb 21 |
Bugs 1-13 fixed |
🏆 VLX detection, nil guards, ssget, walline, inspanel fast path, tiltup |
Feb 22 |
Bugs 14-15 fixed (ENAME serialization) |
🏆 inspanel tiltlist.txt + tiltup index bug (latent PB11 bugs) |
Feb 23 |
XData refactor plan created |
📄 doc 33 — systematic approach to ENAME/XData filtering |
Feb 23 |
User manual expanded |
📄 Site workflow sections with step-by-step instructions |
Feb 24 |
TB11-01x64 source sync |
🏆 x64 fork synced with all x32 patches + missing inspanel.lsp |
Feb 25 |
Bugs 16-17 fixed (savelay + layout) |
🏆 Critical serialization bugs — ENAME/XData filtering + index fix |
Feb 25 |
GitHub Issues infrastructure |
🏆 17 issues created, 18 custom labels, automated sync workflow |
Feb 25 |
WiX permanently sidelined |
🏆 Autodesk App Store accepts VLX uploads directly — no MSI needed |
Feb 25 |
P1c Integration COMPLETE |
✅ 17 bugs found and fixed, all tracked via GitHub Issues |
Previous Weeks (Feb 10-18)¶
Date |
Accomplishment |
Impact |
|---|---|---|
Feb 18 |
P1c Alpha Testing ACTIVE |
🏆 GUI and functionality review by GSCI engineers (Terry, Tai, Dat) |
Feb 18 |
Installer sidelined |
✅ Total Uninstall handles deployment; WiX deferred |
Feb 16 |
v3.60 source recovery COMPLETE |
🏆 12 missing modules recovered, 3 crash paths fixed |
Feb 16 |
Path analysis of every menu click |
🏆 40 menu paths + 20 toggles all tested — legacy architecture mapped |
Feb 17 |
Win10 x64 WoW64 integration COMPLETE |
🏆 AutoCAD 2000 on x64 via Wow6432Node — unsupported by Autodesk |
Feb 13 |
Win10 32-bit: FULL STACK WORKING |
🏆 AutoCAD 2000 + CV + COM automation, auto-config script |
Feb 10 |
CV3.60 + AC2000 installed on XP, Vista, Win7 |
🏆 All 3 OSes pass — no UAC issues as Administrator |
Feb 10 |
8 installer bugs cataloged with severities |
🏆 Complete root cause analysis (profile detection = #1 bug) |
🔍 Weeks 7-8 Key Learnings (Feb 18-25)¶
Critical Success: P1c Integration COMPLETE — 17 bugs fixed. Bug fixing sprint discovered and resolved 17 bugs including 2 critical serialization errors, 3 latent PB11 bugs, and multiple crash-path fixes. All tracked via GitHub Issues with automated sync. P2 (Design) is now active with several improvements already shipped.
17 Bugs Fixed: Complete bug fixing sprint — VLX detection, nil guards, ssget, walline recovery, inspanel fast path, ENAME/XData serialization, tiltup/layout index bugs. See 32-tb11-bug-tracker
GitHub Issues Infrastructure: 17 issues created with 18 custom labels (severity, autolisp, serialization, version, build, arch, phase). Automated sync workflow pushes bug tracker updates to GitHub Issues.
WiX Permanently Sidelined: Autodesk App Store accepts compiled VLX uploads directly with a wizard-based submission process. No standalone MSI installer needed — saves significant time and budget.
Win11 Compatibility Confirmed: Win10 x64 is compatible with Win11 x64 — no additional work required for Windows 11 support.
TB11-01x64 Fully Synced: x64 fork updated with all x32 patches including missing inspanel.lsp.
P2 Design Already Active: Drawing type dialog, file browser fix, vla-open workflow, dirchk fix, and formatting refactors all shipped during alpha testing.
Next Steps: Continue P2 GUI improvements based on alpha feedback → input/output validation → code refactoring
🔍 Week 6 Key Learnings (Feb 16-18)¶
Critical Success: Project is ~2 months ahead of schedule. P1c (Integration & Bug Fixing) and P2 (GUI Review) were scheduled for April-May but both phases are active or imminent in February. All 5 OS platforms validated. All crash paths fixed. Alpha testing running.
Path Analysis Complete: Every menu click (40 paths + 20 panel property toggles) tested end-to-end — revealed 3 crash bugs (all fixed) and fully documented legacy architecture (menu → LSP → DCL mapping)
NanoCAD is a Dead End: NanoCAD doesn’t support menugroup, VLX/ARX loading, or COM automation. Only basic LSP works. Not viable as an alternative CAD platform for ConstructiVision.
WoW64 Integration is a Win: AutoCAD 2000 on Win10 x64 works by copying registry keys to Wow6432Node. Autodesk does NOT support this path, but it’s fully functional. This was a novel approach — no documentation exists for it.
Installer Not Needed Yet: Total Uninstall fully handles install/remove across VMs. WiX installer deferred to end of security phase — focus now shifts to product quality.
Alpha Testing Active: GSCI engineers (Terry, Tai, Dat) doing GUI and functionality review. Input/output validation begins next — verify drawings, panel books, calculations produce correct results.
2026 Budget¶
Development Infrastructure (Monthly)¶
Item |
Monthly |
Annual |
Status |
|---|---|---|---|
GitHub Enterprise |
$21 |
$252 |
Active |
GitHub Copilot+ |
$39 |
$468 |
Active |
AWS Hosting (website) |
~$50 |
~$600 |
Active |
Subtotal |
$110 |
$1,320 |
Software & Licensing¶
Item |
Cost |
Date Needed |
Status |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
AutoCAD 2026 License |
$1,865 |
Jun 2026 |
Pending |
Required for P3 testing |
Autodesk Dev Network |
$500 |
Sep 2026 |
Pending |
App Store access |
Code Signing (OV) |
$200/yr |
Q2 2026 |
Pending |
Sectigo - builds SmartScreen reputation |
Code Signing (EV) |
$400/yr |
Nov 2026 |
Optional |
Instant SmartScreen trust, hardware token |
Subtotal |
$2,565 - $2,965 |
💡 Installer Tool Decision Update (Feb 25, 2026):
WiX Toolset 4.xpermanently sidelined. Autodesk App Store accepts compiled VLX uploads directly with a wizard-based submission process — no standalone MSI installer needed. This eliminates the WiX learning curve and development time entirely. See installer-modernization-decision.md for original analysis. (archived)
Code Signing Options Explained¶
Type |
Cost/Year |
SmartScreen Behavior |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
Unsigned |
$0 |
⚠️ “Windows protected your PC” warning |
OK for beta/pilot |
OV (Organization Validation) |
~$200 |
⚠️ Warning initially, builds reputation over downloads |
Recommended for GA |
EV (Extended Validation) |
~$400 |
✅ Instant trust, no warnings |
Requires hardware token |
Staffing (2027 Q1 — Post-Revenue)¶
Role |
Monthly |
Months |
Total |
Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Web Developer (Contract) |
$8,000 |
3 |
$24,000 |
Planned Q1 2027 |
💡 Rationale: Defer web developer hiring until Q1 2027 to realize sales revenue from App Store launch (Dec 2026) before committing to new hires.
Training & Professional Development (Paid Only)¶
📘 Full training plan: See skill-development.md for complete learning roadmap including free resources.
Item |
Provider |
Cost |
Timeline |
Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
|
|
❌ Not Needed |
Autodesk Certified Professional |
Autodesk |
$300 |
Sep 2026 |
⬜ Optional |
AWS Solutions Architect Assoc. |
AWS |
$150 |
Q1 2027 |
⬜ Optional |
GitHub Actions Certification |
GitHub |
$99 |
Mar 2026 |
⬜ Optional |
Autodesk University (virtual) |
Autodesk |
~$99 |
Nov 2026 |
⬜ Planned |
Budgeted Training: $0 required + $549 optional = $0 - $549
2026 Total Budget¶
Category |
Amount |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
Infrastructure |
$1,320 |
GitHub, AWS hosting |
Software/Licensing |
$2,565-2,965 |
AutoCAD, ADN, code signing |
Installer Tools |
$0 |
WiX Toolset is FREE ✅ |
Training (paid only) |
$0-549 |
See skill-development.md |
2026 Total |
$3,885 - $4,834 |
💰 Cost Savings: Choosing WiX over InstallShield 12 saves $300-500 upfront. Choosing OV over EV code signing saves $200/year while still providing signed installers.
2027 Deferred |
Amount |
|---|---|
Web Developer (Q1 2027) |
$24,000 |
Risk Register¶
# |
Risk |
Phase |
Prob |
Impact |
Residual |
Mitigation |
Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
R1 |
Source parity gap (missing code) |
P1 |
— |
— |
🔵 |
12 modules recovered from v3.60; 3 crash paths fixed |
✅ Resolved |
R2 |
VLX decompilation impossible |
P1 |
— |
— |
🔵 |
All 93 LSP source files now on disk |
✅ Mitigated |
R3 |
Build artifacts lost |
P0 |
— |
— |
🔵 |
v3.60 + v11 archived and documented |
✅ Mitigated |
R4 |
Legacy installer unrecoverable |
P1 |
— |
— |
🔵 |
setup.rul fully decompiled and analyzed |
✅ Mitigated |
R5 |
InstallShield rebuild fails |
P1 |
— |
— |
🔵 |
Bypassed — proceeding directly to WiX |
✅ Bypassed |
R6 |
VLX won’t recompile |
P1 |
🟢 |
🔴 |
🟢 |
All 93 LSP files available; CSV.VLX works as-is |
⏳ Active |
R7 |
|
|
— |
— |
🔵 |
Bypassed — Autodesk App Store accepts VLX directly; no MSI needed |
✅ Bypassed |
R8 |
Windows compatibility issues |
P1 |
— |
— |
🟢 |
XP/Vista/Win7/Win10x32/Win10x64 all validated; Win10x64 = Win11x64 |
✅ Resolved |
R9 |
UI/UX review reveals major gaps |
P2 |
🟡 |
🟡 |
🟢 |
Alpha testing providing early feedback; budget buffer |
▶️ Active |
R10 |
Code refactoring breaks workflows |
P2 |
🟡 |
🔴 |
🟡 |
Regression tests before refactor |
🔜 Planned |
R11 |
Documentation scope creep |
P2 |
🟡 |
🟢 |
🟢 |
Prioritize install/user guides first |
🔜 Planned |
R12 |
ARX incompatible w/ modern AutoCAD |
P3 |
🟡 |
🔴 |
🟡 |
Test early; may remove dependency |
⚠️ Open |
R13 |
AutoCAD 2026 API changes |
P3 |
🟡 |
🟡 |
🟢 |
ADN support; test multiple versions |
🔜 Planned |
R14 |
App Store VLX packaging |
P4 |
🟢 |
🟡 |
🟢 |
Autodesk wizard handles packaging; follow samples |
🔜 Planned |
R15 |
App Store security rejection |
P4 |
🟡 |
🔴 |
🟡 |
EV cert; compliance checklist |
🔜 Planned |
R16 |
Web developer hiring delay |
2027 |
🟢 |
🟡 |
🟢 |
Start recruiting Q4 2026; have backup |
🔜 Planned |
R17 |
Solo developer burnout |
All |
🟡 |
🔴 |
🟡 |
Phased approach; realistic pace; ahead of schedule |
⏳ Active |
R18 |
NanoCAD incompatible |
P1 |
— |
— |
🔵 |
FAILED — no menugroup/VLX/COM support; AutoCAD-only path |
❌ Closed |
Top 3 Risks to Monitor:
R12 ARX incompatible w/ modern AutoCAD — csv.arx already fails on AC2000; need testing with modern versions
R9 UI/UX review reveals major gaps — alpha testers now providing early feedback
R17 Solo developer burnout — mitigated by being ~2 months ahead of schedule
Resolved (Feb 16-18): R1 (Source parity gap) — 12 modules recovered from v3.60. R8 (Windows compatibility) — all 5 OS platforms validated including Win10 x64 via WoW64; Win10 x64 is compatible with Win11 x64. R18 (NanoCAD) — attempted and failed, AutoCAD-only path confirmed.
Bypassed (Feb 25): R7 (WiX learning curve) — Autodesk App Store accepts compiled VLX uploads directly with a wizard. No standalone MSI installer needed.
Technical Findings: v3.60 vs v7.0 Comparison¶
Component |
v3.60 (Legacy) |
v7.0 (Current) |
Gap Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|
LSP Files |
~60* (in CAB) |
77 ✅ |
v7.0 has 17+ new modules |
DCL Files |
~35* (in CAB) |
43 ✅ |
v7.0 adds 8+ dialogs |
Menu Files |
4 (.mnu) |
5 (.cui) ✅ |
v7.0 uses modern format |
VLX Compiled |
1 |
1 |
Need recompile from LSP |
ARX Binary |
2 ⚠️ |
2 ⚠️ |
No C++ source either version |
Installer |
✅ InstallShield |
❌ NONE |
🔴 Critical gap |
Lines (Inst.) |
4,163 |
0 |
Reverse-engineered |
* File counts inside CAB archives are estimates until full extraction
v3.60 Installer Bugs (Root Cause Analysis)¶
Bug |
Severity |
Root Cause |
Fix Approach |
|---|---|---|---|
User Profile detection failure |
🔴 Critical |
Writes to .DEFAULT/S-1-5-18 instead of HKCU |
Write to proper HKCU profile |
UAC file rename hack |
🟢 Low |
Works as Administrator; blocks standard users |
Replace with process check (for non-admin) |
|
🟡 High |
Readme command doesn’t work in AC2000 |
Fix LISP load or automate _appload |
csv.arx incompatible |
🟡 Medium |
ARX compiled for wrong AC version |
Recompile or remove if VLX sufficient |
Version key mismatch (3.2 vs 3.60) |
🟡 Medium |
InstallShield script never updated |
Fix version constant |
acad.exe crash on Vista/Win7 |
🟡 Medium |
Menu compilation triggers crash |
Pre-compile menus or skip launch |
LOADCTRLS downgrade |
🟡 Medium |
Changes demand-load behavior |
Investigate intent; preserve if needed |
LocalServer32 path corruption |
🟡 Low |
Forward slashes in COM path |
Preserve original path format |
isDcc output won’t compile |
🔴 Critical |
Bytecode-level decompilation |
Use wizard approach instead |
Nero Study Findings (Feb 9):
isDcc Limitation: Generates bytecode-level code (10,031 lines Nero, 4,163 lines CV) that won’t compile
Workaround: InstallShield wizard generates clean 606-line .rul that compiles successfully
Decision: Rebuild CV installer using wizard approach; each OS needs targeted build OR migrate to WiX
Multi-OS Testing Findings (Feb 10-18):
CV3.60 installs on XP, Vista, AND Win7 — no UAC issues when logged in as Administrator
Win10 32-bit: Full stack working — AutoCAD 2000 + CV + COM automation + auto-config script
Win10 64-bit: Full stack working — AutoCAD 2000 running via WoW64 with Wow6432Node registry fix (103 CLSIDs, 104 Interfaces, 6 ProgIDs). Autodesk does NOT support this path — novel approach with no existing documentation, but fully functional.
NanoCAD integration FAILED — NanoCAD doesn’t support menugroup, VLX/ARX loading, or COM automation. Only basic LSP works. Decision: AutoCAD-only path going forward.
v3.60 source recovery COMPLETE — 12 modules recovered, 3 crash paths fixed, TB11-01x32 deployed
Path analysis of every menu click — 40 menu-level paths + 20 panel property toggles tested end-to-end, documenting legacy architecture (menu → LSP → DCL)
8 bugs cataloged — see CV360-Installation-Analysis.md
41 files + exact registry spec — complete v11 installer blueprint
All 5 OS platforms validated — XP, Vista, Win7, Win10x32, Win10x64
v26 Target Build Strategy¶
Component |
Approach |
Priority |
Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Source Code |
Build from v11 LSP/DCL (TB11-01x32) |
P1c |
🟢 93 modules on disk, 20/20 toggles working |
Installation |
Total Uninstall (VM deployment) |
P1c |
✅ Working — install/remove across VMs |
Installer |
|
— |
❌ Autodesk App Store accepts VLX directly |
App Store Package |
VLX direct upload via wizard |
P4 |
🔜 Planned |
Web Version |
AutoLISP → .js/.NET |
2027 |
⏳ Deferred |
Why different installer? InstallShield 5.x / WiX → Autodesk App Store VLX upload: InstallShield 5.x was:
❌ No longer supported (20+ years old)
❌ Not code-signable for modern Windows
❌ Blocked by SmartScreen/Defender
❌ Not compatible with Autodesk App Store
Project Charter¶
Last Updated: February 25, 2026 | Prepared by: Chad Weidert
Guiding Principles¶
Prefer preservation over reinvention — Source recovery successful
Minimize risky rewrites — Installer rebuild, not LSP rewrite
Automate verification early — Regression tests in sprint weeks 4-5
Phased approach reduces risk — Analysis → Integration → Design → App Store
Project Overview¶
Modernize ConstructiVision from legacy Windows/AutoCAD platforms to modern systems. Create a distributable product for Windows 7-11 and AutoCAD R14-2026, with a path to Autodesk App Store distribution.
Product Goals¶
Goal |
Target |
Status |
|---|---|---|
Install on modern Windows |
Win XP through Win 11 |
✅ XP/Vista/Win7/Win10x32/Win10x64 validated; x64 = Win11 |
Run on modern AutoCAD |
R14 through 2026 |
🟡 AC2000 validated on x32+x64 via WoW64; modern AC pending |
NanoCAD as alt platform |
Free alternative to AutoCAD |
❌ FAILED — no menugroup/VLX/COM support; AutoCAD-only path |
Preserve critical workflows |
Panel book, calcs, reports |
▶️ 17 bugs fixed; alpha testing active — I/O validation next |
Cloud subscription path |
App Store distribution |
🔜 P4 (Q4) |
AI form automation |
Future enhancement |
⬜ 2027+ |
Scope¶
In-Scope (2026):
Q1:
Installer rebuild + WiX migration→ Alpha testing, bug fixing ✅ 17 bugs fixed (~2 months ahead)Q1-Q2: GUI improvements based on alpha tester feedback ▶️ Active — several improvements shipped
Q2-Q3: Modern AutoCAD compatibility, code signing
Q3: WiX installer development→ NOT NEEDED — Autodesk App Store accepts VLX directlyQ4: App Store submission via wizard, World of Concrete demo
Out-of-Scope (2026):
Net-new features unrelated to modernization
Full module rewrites (use compatibility shims)
Web deployment (deferred to 2027)
Success Criteria¶
Category |
Criterion |
Target |
|---|---|---|
Technical |
Install success rate |
>95% on Win 10/11 |
Technical |
AutoCAD versions |
R14 through 2026 |
Product |
Onboarding time |
<60 minutes |
Commercial |
Distribution |
App Store + direct download |
Documentation Index¶
Document |
Purpose |
|---|---|
File inventory and gap analysis |
|
Technical architecture |
|
Detailed phase breakdown |
|
Week-by-week schedule |
|
Full risk register |
|
Testing strategy |
|
Distribution channels |
|
White Cap & WOC demos |
|
AI roadmap (2027+) |
|
Milestone tracking |
|
Weekly status updates |
|
12-installer-modernization (archived) |
Installer impact analysis |
v3.60 source file recovery |
|
27-vm109-x64-registry-fix (sensitive) |
Win10 x64 COM registry fix |
TB11-01x32 architecture & registry |
|
TB11-01x64 architecture & x64 fork |
|
installer-rebuild-sprint (archived) |
Current sprint plan |
installer-decision (archived) |
WiX decision rationale |
Learning roadmap |