It’s important to re-evaluate your CAD-CAM software every once in a while to make sure that it’s keeping up with the demands of your shop. If your machining needs change as your business grows, your software needs will change right along with them. In order to maintain a successful CNC machine shop, it is essential to considering the following aspects to see if your current software matches up.
1. Properly evaluate your needs, both current and future
Do you currently have CAD-CAM software incorporated into your CNC machining workflow? If not, you should take a close look at how your manufacturing process flows and how the addition of a CAD-CAM product could positively affect your shop’s performance and efficiency. Is your current operation able to program parts while machining parts? Would that increase productivity? 
While most would quickly say “yes” to that last question, you will want to examine that situation closely in relation to your shop. If you already use CAD-CAM, could you benefit from adding another work station or is it simply too expensive to add another seat of the existing product? If so, consider looking for another more affordable CAD/CAM product that fits your needs and budget, and also has a flexible maintenance program, or one that doesn’t demand maintenance. It really boils down to what you need and what you can afford as a business.
2. Your software should be easy to learn
How easy is it to learn the software and adjust to updates, new versions, and add-ons? It’s important for both hobbyists and professionals to understand the typical learning curve for operating CAD-CAM systems. There should be training manuals and training videos available for all software versions and add-ons. If you are looking for a CAD-CAM product you should consider what types of training solutions they offer and if they are convenient for your business. Learning new software can be costly in terms of the amount of time it takes to train someone on it or learn it yourself – this is a top reason why CNC shops stay small by waiting on adding CAD/CAM.
3. Make sure your software has interoperability
Does your CAD/CAM system allow you to connect more with your customers in terms of the type of CAD files they use and will need to provide you? Your system should be compatible with the most common CAD files, as well as have the flexibility to be able to read in all popular file types, such as: SLDPRT, DWG, IGES, STEP, Parasolids, STL and others. File type flexibility is extremely important when working with customers, and could cost you business if ignored.
4. Check that your software is compatible with your current hardware
What operating systems does your software work on? Make sure that the CAD-CAM system is compatible with the operating system that you have, or that it will work on the network that you have at your shop. Check hardware requirements, including which graphics card will work best, and other details to make sure that you have what you need in order to get the most out of your software.
5. Check that your software is compatible with your current CNC Machinery.
All CAD-CAM products allow you to create g-code programs for machining. How many different CNC machines do you have, and does the CAD/CAM software post-process toolpath into the exact language that your CNC machine needs in order to complete the work correctly? These are called “post processors” and you will need one for each different CNC controller on your shop floor. The CAM side of the software will allow you to create g-code programs that meet the requirements of your CNC machine controllers, so make sure whatever product you purchase has this ability. Quite often, post processors need to be modified or customized to be more specific to a machine. Does the CAD-CAM provider change a lot of money for this? Do they even do this type of customization for you? These types of details can be easily looked over but are extremely important when looking to update or get new software.
6. Don’t overpay for maintenance
Do you have yearly maintenance fees, and if so, do you know what the cost covers? Some providers charge you maintenance fees to receive updates to plug in products or to gain access to training events. You should not be paying to receive updates and bug fixes.
7. Don’t undervalue support
Be wary of companies that offer “free support,” as it may indicate a low quality of service and long, frustrating waiting periods. Remember that as that customer base grows, so does the support traffic, and the company should have a support team available that is able to handle all of your requests. If your current software doesn’t meet these requirements, it may be time to switch to software that better suits your shop floor. Having the right CAD-CAM system for your needs can effectively shave up to 30% off your job time, helping you increase productivity and profitability for your shop.
For more information on BobCAD-CAM software, call us directly at 727.442.3554.