I dont really know a lot about BIM modelling, but from the sounds of it you could do what you want with dynamic components. Specifically, using the generate report function would probably be quite useful.

Chris, That is exactly what I was looking for! You just introduced me to styles, I will need to play with these now. I would never have looked there, thank you! Adam

Bonnie responded to my voice message. She seems to have some email problems. I ordered these books (link below) looked them over and they look very very good for what I need and want to do. I would recommend these books to anyone that wants to get a little one started with SU which I think can be an excellant learning tool. Still interested in knowing about anything else out there that might be good to work with. I am excited, soon, wonder boy can teach me some stuff. http://www.3dvinci.net/ccp0-prodshow/MBB_PDF.html

We use 1 layer for dimensioning in SketchUp. Parallel projected views for plan and all elevations. For each view incorporate all of the dimensions you want...then in 'window-model-dimensions' choose 'select all dimensions', close the dialog box and 'group' the hi-lited dimensions. Open Outliner, name the group something logical, then after export, hide the newly formed group and move on to the next view...repeat. We usually group all of the dimension groups pertaining to 1 object after all dimensioning is complete. We used to use layers....good luck with that if you try it.