CAD/CAM: the essential checklist to make sure you make the right choice of software!

✓ The software is compatible with my clients’ file formats
This seems obvious, but it is nevertheless a point to check because it is not uncommon for CAD/CAM software to use proprietary formats. To meet your needs, the TopSolid software solution uses the Parasolid exact geometric modelling core, well-known and frequently used in CAD/CAM. Thus, by choosing TopSolid, you will be able to read and write in all open formats on the market, which guarantees the interoperability of your files with the main systems used by your contractors and subcontractors.

✓ I have the opportunity to test the software before buying it
Compulsively choosing your software is out of the question. It is necessary to prepare your project by precisely identifying its needs, using specifications. From there, a good practice is to identify a typical part of your production, if possible complex to better understand the capabilities of CAD/CAM software to be tested. You must then make a pre-selection of 4 or 5 CAD/CAM software and request a free demonstration. Most serious software companies offer this option.

✓ I was fully satisfied with the demo
The demo request should allow you to compare the different software selected and evaluate their technical features with regard to your typical part and your needs. The first element to consider is the ability of the software to efficiently program the manufacture of the submitted part. The second is the software’s ability to adapt to your existing environment. Interoperability is key in this sense: the software must be able to retrieve any type of CAD file and connect to other ERP and CAPM software, reliably and efficiently. At the end of the demo, no grey area should remain. So do not hesitate to put the person in charge of the demonstration to the test! Rely on your specifications to be sure that the software will be useful to you on a daily basis.

✓ The software works properly with my machines
CAD and CAD/CAM needs are directly related to the company’s activity. It is important to understand that a design office of decoration products will not have the same needs or objectives as a toolmaker, an aircraft manufacturer or a manufacturer of special machines. However, it does not matter whether a company is equipped with a CNC wood, sheet metal or mechanical park: it needs a CAD/CAM solution adapted to its needs. It is therefore necessary to favor software adapted to its activity, which integrates relevant business functions.

✓ I have the possibility to customize and upgrade the software
Each profession has its own know-how, and each company has its own processes: the CAD/CAM software must be able to take into account the specific procedures that make up the strength of a company. Don’t settle for a standard solution: opt for a customizable CAD/CAM solution. Only in this way will you be able to capitalize on your know-how, in order to benefit from the best productivity potential.

✓ I inquired with users of the software
The reputation of a solution is an important element to consider. In this sense, what could be better than reviews from real users to help you identify the potential of a software? Read user reviews, look at customer cases, and try to see what are the positive or negative elements that stand out from one user to another, focusing if possible on user reviews from a sector similar to yours.

✓ I have the necessary computers and network infrastructure
Before positioning yourself on a software, remember to ask all the necessary technical questions. For example, you should ensure hardware compatibility between the software and your computers, taking into account the required operating system and the type of graphics card needed, to anticipate any additional costs. Rely internally on the specialists in the field, to be sure not to forget any aspect.

✓ I know how many licenses I need and for how long
License purchase, rental… When it comes to CAD/CAM software, several business models exist. If the rental system, in the form of a subscription, may seem attractive at first glance, it is however necessary to be wary. Admittedly, the company has the possibility to pay in instalments but cumulated over time, the price of the subscription is often higher than the purchase price of a license. In addition, in SaaS mode, you are not in control of your data, since it is the software publisher who has total control over it. In the event of a temporary network outage, you will not have access to your CAD/CAM solution. The purchase of a license allows for its part to offer tailor-made, thinking long-term. By paying the price of the software at once, the company becomes the owner and keeps perfect control over its data. However, this solution requires basic skills for installation, handling and updates of the software. This is why it is advisable to choose a publisher that offers real support and training sessions.

✓ I know the cost of the software and maintenance contract
Beyond the cost of the software and the maintenance contract, it is necessary to ensure what the license includes in terms of accompaniment and support. Aware that the implementation of CAD/CAM software represents a major undertaking, TOPSOLID supports companies from the preliminary phase of the CAD/CAM project, to the implementation and handling of the software. Thus, each TopSolid offer includes a complete training offered to your users, within a TOPSOLID agency. As a CAD/CAM licensee, you then benefit from unlimited customer support via the TOPSOLID hotline, for a minimum period of 6 months. At the end of these 6 free months, you have the option to subscribe to a specific maintenance contract, which will give you unlimited access to dedicated customer support. At the same time, you will have regular access to new training courses to make the most of the evolution of TopSolid’s CAD/CAM software. In addition to in-depth business expertise, TOPSOLID strives to develop a close relationship with its customers, to allow you to go further, always faster.

This article was originally published on CAD/CAM: the essential checklist to make the right choice of software! (topsolid.com)

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