Thanks TIG. I should have added much more detail which I will attempt now.
When double clicking the ShetchUp.exe application file I continually get this message:
The application has failed to start because its side-by-side configuration is incorrect. Please see the application event log or use the command-line sxstrace.exe tool for more detail.
I am using Windows 8.1 as my OS and haven't, as yet, located the Application Event Log which I thought would be part of the Task Manager.
I get the same message with SketchUp Pro 7 but SketchUp Pro 6 launches but doesn't allow me to access Layout. Something to do with the operating system, I think.
I am anxious about using the comand-line system, even if I knew where it was.
I'll keep trying but if someone has a bright idea [I'm completely out of them] I'd be very grateful.
Bernard