Background Information

Prior to the introduction of Bentley licensing, GeoStudio included a built-in viewer mode that allowed users to view analyses and reports without consuming a full license.

With Bentley licensing, GeoStudio Viewer is now accessed via a separate shortcut in the Start Menu. This change has led to some confusion, as the Viewer and full GeoStudio application shortcuts appear similar.

How to Identify GeoStudio Viewer

1. Start Menu Shortcut
   • Look for a shortcut labeled "GeoStudio Viewer" in the Start Menu.
   • This is distinct from the regular "GeoStudio" shortcut used for full-feature access.
     
2.  Bentley CONNECTION Client Sign-In
   • You must be signed in to the Bentley CONNECTION Client to use GeoStudio Viewer.
   • The Viewer uses a free license entitlement labeled "GeoStudio" in the CONNECTION Client License Tool.
   • This is separate from commercial entitlements like "GeoStudio 2D" or "GeoStudio 3D".
     
3.  Visual Indicators in the Application
   • When launched, the application will clearly display the word "Viewer" in the user interface.
   • Some user interface elements of the application window will have a light-green shading, helping distinguish it from the full version.
     
      
     

Why This Matters

Using the Viewer instead of the full application can help:

• Avoid consuming a commercial license unnecessarily.
• Allow team members to review results without impacting licensed users.