MCP Server Functionality Restricted Without Project Management

[plannedRITE]

I've been experimenting with the new MCP server in X18 using Codex, and I'm pretty disappointed to discover how much functionality appears to be restricted unless Project Management is enabled.

 

Codex can read room and object properties, retrieve dimensions and elevations, and even select specific objects. However, attempting something as basic as opening an object's specification dialog through the MCP returns "This tool requires Chief to be in project management mode." The same happens when attempting to use the MCP's keyboard shortcut functionality.

 

I understand that certain project-related functions might depend on Project Management, but why would basic drafting commands and object interactions require it?

 

I use the old file management intentionally. My entire workflow revolves around an established folder structure, NAS storage, and backup system. Switching to Project Management just to take advantage of AI automation would be a pretty significant change that I'd really rather avoid. (And honestly, my file management has been working just fine...I've never had a reason to change)

 

Is there an actual technical reason these functions require Project Management, or is this simply a limitation of the experimental implementation?

 

I'd really like to see full MCP functionality supported with Traditional File Management as well. Otherwise, it seems like a lot of the potential of this new feature is being unnecessarily restricted for those of us who don't use Project Management.

 

Also, I'm shocked that this is being implemented - it's incredible! My head has been spinning with all of the potential, I'm beyond excited about it and to see what others come up with. But the file management deal is really odd to me...and a problem. I might be misunderstanding something as I'm mostly just communicating what Codex is telling me that it's running into.

 

Thanks Chief team for bringing something like this in!

[Renerabbitt]

10 minutes ago, plannedRITE said:

Is there an actual technical reason these functions require Project Management

Because its LITERLLY better in every single way, just turn it on and learn it and be thankful you did because its SO much better once you learn it.
One SINGLE file to store your project with all of its complicated linking, assets, design iterations. One file. just switch!

[plannedRITE]

19 hours ago, Renerabbitt said:

Because its LITERLLY better in every single way, just turn it on and learn it and be thankful you did because its SO much better once you learn it.
One SINGLE file to store your project with all of its complicated linking, assets, design iterations. One file. just switch!

(to others reading, we are texting about this now. I'm going to be looking back into project management but I had issues with it when it was first being introduced, though I don't recall with what exactly, and I had to revert back to the traditional method)

For now, is there a reason for this not working with the traditional method?

Edited 3 hours ago by plannedRITE

[scottharris]

Ethan, not all the tools are available in our initial release. As we move forward, we expect to offer several more. We have an AI forum for specific requests that we are monitoring.