STAAD.Pro now includes a start page with access to the functions normally required when first starting STAAD.Pro, including shortcuts for starting a new file, accessing the recently accessed files, launching the help file and configuring STAAD.Pro.

The new Start Page is divided into 4 sections that can be used to achieve the following:

1. Project Tasks, to:
   1. Start a New Project using the STAAD.Pro wizard.
   2. Open an existing file using the traditional windows browse dialog enhanced with a model preview window.
   3. Set the program behavior with the Configuration options.
   4. Setup the automatic Backup configuration requirements.
2. Recent Files to preview and access the last 6 models opened.
3. Help Topics,
   1. Quick access to the online Help document.
   2. Locate the technical support centers and contact details.
   3. Find out the latest information on the program online from the Product News link.
   4. Access the growing STAAD.Pro online knowledge base.
4. License Configuration. To quickly identify which SELECT licenses are being used by the current session of STAAD.Pro, they are displayed and color coded on the Start Page thus:
   • If the license is available it is marked with a green circle thus:
     
   • Licenses that have not been selected are marked with a grey circle thus:
     
   • If the selected license can not be obtained or is not available from the server will be shown with a red circle, thus:
     

Additional configuration of the Bentley SELECT license, such as specifying the server name and activation key, can be viewed and set using Bentley License Management Tool which can be accessed from the link at the bottom right of the License Configuration section.