Fusion 360 vs Global Shop Solutions

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Our analysts compared Fusion 360 vs Global Shop Solutions based on data from our 400+ point analysis of Manufacturing Software, user reviews and our own crowdsourced data from our free software selection platform.

Fusion 360 Software Tool
Global Shop Solutions Software Tool

Product Basics

Fusion 360 is a cloud-based 3D CAD/CAM software that bridges the gap between design and manufacturing. It's well-suited for individuals and small-to-medium businesses seeking a streamlined solution for product development and fabrication. Users praise its intuitive interface, integrated design and manufacturing tools, and cloud collaboration capabilities. Popular features include generative design, simulation tools, and machining capabilities for various manufacturing processes. While some users note performance limitations with complex projects and a reliance on internet connectivity, Fusion 360 stands out for its affordability compared to traditional CAD/CAM software, with subscription plans starting under $500 annually.

Pros
  • Integrated CAD/CAM
  • Cloud collaboration
  • Design for manufacturing
  • Generative design
  • Simulation capabilities
Cons
  • Cloud dependency
  • Performance limitations
  • Limited feature depth
  • Subscription model
  • Learning curve
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Global Shop Solutions integrates processes such as financial management, manufacturing management and customer relationship management into one centralized location. It leverages shared data to automate workflows and increase employee productivity. Insights are easily visualized through customizable dashboards and reports that are accessible based on user-defined permissions.

Compliance management is another key element and enables users to maintain historical records of quality checks for internal and external audits. Users can track the customer lifecycle as well to ensure that leads are cultivated and sales pitches are tailored.
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$425 Annually
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$18,000 Monthly
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Product Assistance

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Product Insights

  • Extensive Library: Fusion 360 offers a complete library of free, open-source and entirely revisable processors for users to upload thorough numerical control (NC) applications so they can rapidly make parts or workpieces.  
  • Intuitive Cloud Interface: Users can log into this solution and access projects from any device with an internet connection. The interface is also adjustable and simple for users to operate. 
  • Fulfill Design Needs: Fusion 360 enables users to design, model, assemble and render projects and workpieces in one centralized system without exporting files to external solutions.  
  • Distraction-Free Rendering: Users can run the rendering process in the background while working on other processes so they can stay on top of their productivity,  
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  • Revenue Generation: Support revenue generation through its management of inventory, shop floor and manufacturing processes. The program can help users visualize bottlenecks that are slowing down production. By identifying these workflow issues, users can determine actions to improve operations, leading to an increase in profits. 
  • Compliance: Ensure items are made appropriately and per regulatory standards with the quality control tools. The solution can also keep track of item quality history to assist with potential audits. 
  • Increased Productivity: Increase employee and operational productivity through the automation of tasks, freeing up employee time for different processes. For example, material purchasing can be automated by leveraging historical demand and sales information. 
  • Data Centralization: Obtain more accurate communication and fewer manual errors with its centralization of information. Additionally, automation can be implemented through the sharing of data among different workflows. For example, by using historical transaction information, the system could develop more accurate sales forecasts and, in turn, create material orders in line with estimated demand. 
  • Visibility: Leverage customizable dashboards to help users develop insights quickly and accurately. For example, basic accounting functions such as budgeting, accounts payable and accounts receivable can be analyzed through a unified dashboard.  
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  • Numerous Sketch Tools: Users can implement the 3D modeling module to create products with the ideal form, fit and function. This tool enables users to develop and revise sketches with constraints, dimensions and a robust chain of sketching accessories. Users can also develop parametric models by creating a list of frequently-used features such as extrude, revolve, loft, sweep and more that instantly update with design changes. 
  • Various Modes of Modeling: Fusion 360's 3D modeling component is equipped with a variety of different modeling modes. The direct modeling tool allows users to modify and fix imported shapes from different file formats. Users can draft intricate sub-divisional surfaces that have T-splines and effortlessly edit them with push-pull maneuvers thanks to the freeform modeling extension. The mesh modeling accessory allows editing and repairing of imported scans or mesh models such as STL and OBJ files. Other extensions in the 3D modeling module include sheet metal modeling, parametric modeling, surface modeling, assembly and printed circuit board (PCB) design integration. 
  • Add Electronic Intelligence to Designs: Users can bring 3D designs to life with the electronic intelligence feature. The schematic capture function has several schematic editing tools. Users can construct gerber, drill and assembly files in one click and with the PCB manufacturing (CAM) accessory.  
  • Ensure PCBs Fit Designs: Thanks to the electronics module's MCAD-ECAD unification ability, users can rest assured their PCB fits their designs every time with the unified MCAD and ECAD software. Users can peruse the PCB component library and component wizards for ready-to-use PCB designs and there are adjustable design rules users can set to align with users' manufacturing requirements in the design for manufacturability and design rule checking (DRC) tool. Other extensions in the electronics module include PCB layout, simulation program with integrated circuit emphasis (SPICE) simulation, and electronics cooling. 
  • Real-World Simulations: Fusion 360's simulation allows users to test their designs and models against life-like conditions digitally so they can save money on prototypes. The status stress function oversees parts and workpieces for displacements, stresses and other effects caused by static loads. The thermal and thermal stresses function enables users to comprehend thermal distributions and they connect with physical forces. Users can estimate unexpected failures for parts under compression thanks to the buckling tool. The non-linear stress extension studies permanent deformations and unleveled materials in designs. Other functions within this module include event simulation, shape optimization, modal frequency, comparing results, simplifying, breadth studies and cloud simulation.  
  • Accurately Determine Outcomes: Users can pinpoint several manufacturing-prepared results for their products or workpieces to meet design specifications while dwindling weight, boosting efficiency and condensing parts. Users can recognize design conditions, restrictions, materials and manufacturing choices to create manufacturing-ready diagrams with the project objective definition function. The editable results element allows users to pick the ideal outcome for their designs so they can promptly begin modeling instead of conducting lengthy importing or exporting procedures. Thanks to aPriori in the cost insights function, users can formulate manufacturing costs for every potential outcome in their designs in reference to production volume requirements. Other extensions in this component include generating and exploring designs and cloud solve. 
  • Efficacious Documentation: Fusion 360's documentation accessory permits users to effectively convey designs with internal or external stakeholders with 2D manufacturing drawings, renderings and animations. The 2D manufacturing drawings function chronicles manufacturing requirements with integrated associative drawings for parts and assemblies. The rendering tool enables users to develop photography-esque images of their models with local or cloud rendering options. Lastly, users can effectively convey designs with 3D-expanded views and animations to showcase design assembly thanks to the animation extension.  
  • Unify Teams: Users can eliminate communication roadblocks with their teammates and external stakeholders with the collaboration tool. The team participant extension authorizes users to add members to their zones for data management and teamwork purposes. Users can share links to model previews in any web browser so third parties can evaluate and interact with the model without access to Fusion 360 with the public and private design sharing function. The commenting and redlining extension allows users to gather and share critiques on the design with comments, markups and redlines on practically any device. Other functions included in this tool include user management, global sharing and unlimited access. 
  • Manufacturing: The manufacturing tool suits practically every manufacturing need and collaborates with various types of machinery such as cutting, milling and turning machines. The 5-axis simultaneous milling extension permits users to mill complex shapes, evade collisions and diminish tool lengths to complete sleek surfaces. Turning toolpaths can be verified with stock simulations to detect errors or collisions in models, stocks, tools and work holdings with the turning function. Users can draft toolpaths from solid model features, such as flattened sheet metal components, to activate water jet, laser and plasma cutters. Other extensions in this accessory include 2.5 and 3-axis milling, 3+2 milling, 4-axis milling, setup probing, mill-turning and a free post processor library.  
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  • Shop Management: Gain a real-time overview of the shop floor. It contains information such as variance reports, job costing, material review and performance measurement. Workcenter data is also easily accessible through this tool and includes information such as efficiency reports, load details and backlog reports. Scheduling information is available through the program, along with labor performance management. 
  • Planning and Scheduling: Plan for resource needs and material requirements while also developing lead time estimates for jobs. The system uses real-time information to generate sales quotes. A drag-and-drop function is included to make rescheduling or rerouting easier. A Master Schedule Dashboard is included and provides users with visibility of all jobs along with the ability to take action on any job quickly. 
  • Customer Relationship Management: Track leads and identify potential prospects while on the go on mobile devices. Customized reporting is available so that employees can track the customer metrics that are most relevant to the business. Job status, invoicing, shipments and quoting information are available in real time. Users can also send emails to clients directly through the application. 
  • Inventory Management: Trace information related to material needs, whether it be bill of material, cost buildups or inventory data. Some of this tool’s capabilities include history/usage reports, multi-location inventory, product line reports and cycle counting. The program can also automate the purchasing process by using material requirements, purchase history and planning functions to make smart purchases. Vendor material tracking is available through this feature and allows employees to look at cost breakdowns, on-time delivery rates and performance ratings. 
  • Sales Management: Manage functions such as shipping, sales orders, customer service, bookings reports and UPS/FedEx integration. Employees can develop customized reports based on specialized company needs. The Open Sales Order Review Dashboard provides visualization of open orders and lets users take actions from a centralized area. Custom sales orders, shipping labels, invoices and bills of lading can also be created with this tool. 
  • Accounting: Centralize processes such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, budgeting, payroll and other basic accounting functions into a unified location, therefore providing a more comprehensive visualization of company finances. Some of the single-screen dashboards included in the program are AR Aging, AP Aging and AR Collections. User visibility of these sensitive dashboards is based on defined permissions. Organizations can connect their payroll to the general ledger and shop floor information, making the payment process faster and easier. Tax reporting and direct deposit are supported as well. 
  • Quality Control: Analyze scrap trend quantity or costs by vendor, department, date range, workcenter or employee. The program can capture any rejects related to inventory, purchasing or manufacturing and enables users to issue new materials or correct simple problems. Users can maintain a record of all quality control details to meet QC requirements for internal and external needs. Sign-off requirements, tracking and department communications are also included in this feature. 
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Product Ranking

#39

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Manufacturing Software

#12

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Manufacturing Software

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User Sentiment Summary

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Great User Sentiment 155 reviews
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83%
of users recommend this product

Global Shop Solutions has a 'great' User Satisfaction Rating of 83% when considering 155 user reviews from 4 recognized software review sites.

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4.1 (18)
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4.2 (64)
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4.2 (67)
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3.0 (6)

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Integrated CAD/CAM: Streamlines design-to-manufacturing workflow by unifying design, simulation, and toolpath generation within a single platform.
Cloud Collaboration: Facilitates seamless teamwork and real-time project visibility for enhanced communication and faster decision-making.
Design for Manufacturing (DFM): Guides designers to create manufacturable parts from the outset, reducing production costs and delays.
Generative Design: Explores multiple design options tailored for specific manufacturing processes, accelerating innovation and optimizing material usage.
Simulation Capabilities: Validates designs for structural integrity, thermal performance, and motion behavior, minimizing physical prototyping and testing costs.
Intuitive Interface: Simplifies the learning curve with user-friendly tools and a modern, streamlined interface.
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Comprehensive Solution: Global Shop Solutions offers a comprehensive suite of manufacturing software tools, covering everything from scheduling and inventory management to shop floor control and quality assurance. This integrated approach streamlines operations and eliminates the need for multiple disparate systems.
User-Friendly Interface: Many users praise Global Shop Solutions for its intuitive and user-friendly interface. The software is designed to be easy to navigate and use, even for employees who are not tech-savvy. This ease of use can lead to increased productivity and reduced training time.
Improved Efficiency: Global Shop Solutions helps manufacturers optimize their operations and improve efficiency. By automating tasks, streamlining workflows, and providing real-time visibility into production processes, the software enables businesses to reduce waste, minimize downtime, and increase output.
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Cloud Dependency: Requires a stable internet connection for most features, potentially hindering productivity in areas with limited connectivity.
Performance Limitations: Can experience slowdowns or crashes when working with large, complex assemblies or simulations, especially on less powerful hardware.
Feature Depth: While comprehensive, certain specialized manufacturing features might not be as robust as in dedicated CAD/CAM software for specific industries.
Subscription Model: Restricts access to software and data if the subscription lapses or encounters billing issues, potentially disrupting workflows.
Learning Curve: While intuitive, mastering advanced features and workflows can require a steeper learning curve, especially for those transitioning from traditional CAD/CAM systems.
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Difficult to Customize: Users have reported that Global Shop Solutions can be challenging to tailor to their specific manufacturing workflows, especially when it comes to integrating with existing systems or unique production processes.
Complex User Interface: Some users have found the software's interface to be overly complicated and not intuitive, leading to a steep learning curve and decreased efficiency for employees who are not tech-savvy.
Limited Reporting Capabilities: There have been complaints about the software's reporting features being somewhat limited, making it difficult to extract specific data insights and generate comprehensive reports for analysis and decision-making.
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For hobbyists and professionals alike, Fusion 360 resonates with its cloud-powered accessibility and integrated workflow. "It's like SolidWorks and SketchUp had a baby," one user raves, praising its intuitiveness compared to heavier CAD software. This ease of use shines in rapid prototyping workflows, with another reviewer calling it "a dream come true for quick design iterations." However, Fusion 360's cloud reliance can be a double-edged sword. While it liberates users from hefty installations, internet hiccups can cripple productivity. "Offline functionality, even basic rendering, would be a game-changer," pleads one reviewer. This sentiment echoes for complex projects, where users yearn for the raw processing power of desktop-only alternatives. "Fusion 360 choked on my intricate assembly," admits another, highlighting limitations compared to software like CATIA. Despite these quirks, Fusion 360's unique blend of affordability, user-friendliness, and integrated features like simulation and CAM tools keeps users hooked. "The value proposition is unbeatable," one designer declares, while another appreciates the "constant stream of updates and new features." For those seeking a versatile and accessible entry into the world of 3D design and manufacturing, Fusion 360 remains a compelling choice, even with its occasional hiccups.

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Is Global Shop Solutions the "gold standard" for shop solutions? User reviews from the last year paint a picture of a robust and comprehensive ERP system that caters specifically to the needs of manufacturers. Reviewers frequently highlight the software's strengths in inventory management, production planning, and scheduling. The ability to track materials across multiple locations, optimize production schedules, and gain real-time insights into inventory levels is a game-changer for businesses looking to streamline their operations and boost efficiency. Global Shop Solutions' integrated approach sets it apart from competitors, as it eliminates the need for multiple, disparate software systems. This not only saves time and money but also ensures data consistency and accuracy across the entire organization. However, some users note that the software's extensive functionality can lead to a steeper learning curve, especially for those new to ERP systems. Additionally, while Global Shop Solutions offers a wide range of features, some users mention that certain niche functionalities may require additional customization or third-party integrations. Despite these minor drawbacks, the consensus is clear: Global Shop Solutions is a powerful ERP solution that empowers manufacturers to take control of their operations. Its comprehensive features, industry-specific focus, and integrated approach make it an ideal choice for small to medium-sized manufacturing businesses seeking to optimize their processes and drive growth.

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