I have announced this before, but just to reiterate, emphasize, clarify...
New projects should be begun in Archicad 8.
Don't start projects in 7 anymore.
Start projects in 8.
8.
There is a template folder for this purpose which is substantially complete. Not a guarantee.
To help you remember, I have moved the AC7 zTemplate folder to the carrot, where you can still find things you may need for yer 7 projects. So-
Q: I'm starting a project. Where's the zTemplate?
A: On the Hotel.
Q: But that sez zTemplate8.
A: Right.
Q: We're starting projects in 8 now?
A: Yes.
Everybody but DAB, alert me when you are starting a project so that we can make sure you are set up properly. Also we can review the big changes if you like, or even if you don't like.
If you have started a project in 7 recently, let me know now. We will consult on whether it should be migrated. Projects that are far along will be finished in 7.
Make sure you are using '1 Master Library 8' on the Carrot. Don't use AC7 parts in 8. I have reorganized the libraries, so it's better. I hope. I am still willing to listen to reasonable demands. I have dumped most of the smart parts. Good riddance. Hunt in the Archicad 8 Library for furniture and other oddball stuff. I have updated the Kitchen and Bath modules, DAB hasn't updated the furniture module, but he's going to real soon, before the penalties and interest overwhelm his meager compensation.
Along with AC8, you will be using PlotMaker 3. It's way different, and (!) better. Ask for help or you will be completely lost. Once you start using it, you will begin to wonder if you can use it with your AC7 projects, which is actually not the worst idea you've ever had.
When running both versions of Archicad, you will become confused. Sigh. A couple tips:
Place both versions on your Dock, far apart. Put the appropriate version of PM next to each. Drag the project files to the appropriate icon. (Yes the icons are identical. I feel your pain.) You can also go to File:Open in the appropriate version, assuming you know which you're in, see below. Double-clicking will not be a reliable technique. You might accidentally open an AC8 project in 7, which produces an error message concerning 'Unknown document version'. If you use 8 to open a 7 project, it will work, which is worse, because you will save it in 8 without realizing it. This can be fixed, but it's annoying. Also, both versions' application menu is headed 'Archicad' with no version number, thanks a whole hell of a lot. Pay Attention!!!!! (BTW, running 7 & 8 simultaneously is not recommended.)
Richard, since we're discussing starting new projects, nothing in this post applies to you.