Ra Workshop Lite: Quick Start Guide for Beginners

Ra Workshop Lite — Quick Start Guide for Beginners

What it is

Ra Workshop Lite is a free, Windows-based estimation and quoting tool for windows and doors (uPVC, aluminium, wood). It’s designed for showrooms and small fabricators to create fast, attractive quotations with bills of material and basic reports. It’s compatible with other RA Workshop editions so you can upgrade later.

System basics & installation

• OS: Windows (modern versions supported; older releases list Windows XP–10 compatibility).
• Download: Register on the official RA Workshop site and download the Lite edition (free).
• Install: Run the downloaded installer, follow prompts, then launch and register your copy if required.

First steps (one-session setup — get quoting in ~15–30 minutes)

1. Open Ra Workshop Lite and choose/Create a company profile (logo, contact info).
2. Select a profile system from the built-in database (packages include several common profile/hardware sets).
3. Create a new project/quotation and set currency, tax, markup, and additional costs (transport, assembly).
4. Add items: choose window/door type (casement, tilt & turn, awning, sliding, etc.), enter dimensions and opening options.
5. Verify bill of materials and prices generated automatically (profiles, glass, hardware).
6. Generate and export the quotation report (PDF or printed layout) to present to customers.

Key features to use immediately

• Preloaded profile & hardware database (can add or buy additional systems).
• Automatic bill of materials and cost calculation.
• Attractive, customizable quote reports (company logo, intro/closing text, extra costs).
• Basic shape and opening types: rectangular windows/doors, insect screens, common configurations.
• Export/upgrade path to Express/Professional editions or