Project Scheduling Errors

NOTE-- In 2000 we retired MacNail, and replaced it with the improved Goldenseal construction software. However we still keep the manuals online, for die-hard MacNail users! Goldenseal is an integrated program that handles accounting, construction estimating, and project management, plus simple construction project scheduling. We programmed the Goldenseal program very carefullly, so it almost never gives system errors!

Stopping a macro

You can stop an Excel macro at any time-- hold down the command (cloverleaf) key and type a period (.).

Once you have "cut in" to the macro, you will get a dialog box similar to the one shown on page 147. Click on HALT, hit Command-period or the Return or Enter key to return to the normal Excel environment within the MacNail construction scheduling software.

If you do halt a macro, close all documents WITHOUT saving, and then run the full macro again at some other time. If you have a message still showing, see page 147.

System Error (BOMB):

This is not a problem caused directly by the MacNail project management software.

Bombs are most commonly caused by software problems. Some versions of Excel do not "get along" with some versions of the System. Your disk may also have a virus. Excessive INITS (files you put in your System Folder-- such as screen savers) and many Public Domain programs are also notorious for causing The Bomb.

Bombs may also be caused by power line irregularities, by random natural causes (e.g. cosmic rays, background radioactivity), or by hardware malfunctions.

If you bomb frequently, try the following (in this order) until the problem has stopped:
1. Remove any "controversial" programs from your disk. If your problems are recent and you just added a new INIT, it may be interacting badly with Excel.
2. Check your hard disk for virus infection. There are several good virus-checking programs available.
3. If you are using MultiFinder, try running with the regular Finder for a while.
4. Rebuild your Desktop by holding down the option and command keys on startup.
5. Make sure that you have the most recent version of Excel (upgrades are inexpensive). Replace Excel with the copy on your original floppy disk-- the Excel application itself may have become damaged.
6. Make sure you have the most recent version of the System. Replace your System file with a good copy.
7. You may have corrupted files in your disk-- run a "disk housekeeping" program such as Disk Express to clean them up. If files have become badly corrupted, you may have to re-initialize (erase everything and start over).
8. If no software solution seems to help, you may possibly have a damaged hard disk or computer. It is time for professional help.