Fusion 360 vs Infor LN

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Our analysts compared Fusion 360 vs Infor LN 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
Infor LN 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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Infor LN is a thorough planning system that covers business processes, from planning and purchasing to sales and customer service. It can be deployed on the cloud or on-premises. It provides advanced customization options without changing the source code.

Access enhanced supply chain visibility from production through shipment, service, warranty and refurbishment. It accelerates and streamlines complex manufacturing processes. Obtain real-time analytics to make quicker decisions.
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$425 Annually
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$5,000 Monthly
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Product Assistance

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Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support
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24/7 Live Support

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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  • Receive Updated Financial Data: Obtain a real-time, integrated view of financial data across an organization for confident financial predictions. 
  • Resolve Obstacles: Provide a consumer-grade user experience to address specific production bottlenecks. This database expedites complex problem-solving. 
  • Diminish Supply Chain Costs: Create a demand-driven supply chain process using advanced practices to reduce expenses. Implement a strategic sourcing program to decrease supplier quantities and eliminate complexity. 
  • Supervise Multiple Facilities: Leverage multi-site enterprise planning capabilities to synchronize supply processes, optimize inventory and resource utilization, and improve customer service for higher profitability. 
  • Improve Decision-making: Use focused, actionable insights for business operations to make informed company choices.
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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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  • Extensible Architecture: Add custom fields, tables and new business logic to reports and screens without modifying the source code. 
  • Quality Management: Boost business process productivity, reduce waste and simplify reporting with automated monitoring, alerts and dashboards. 
  • Advanced Analytics: Pinpoint and generate insightful trend information. 
  • Demand-driven Supply Chain: Maximize all supply chain facets, including planning, procurement, fulfillment and more. 
  • Product Lifecycle Management (PLM): Supervise quotes, designs, deliveries, aftermarket services and more for all products. 
  • Service Lifecycle Management: Superintend warranties and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) tasks in one centralized solution to sell, modify and generate numerous products. 
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Product Ranking

#39

among all
Manufacturing Software

#21

among all
Manufacturing Software

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User Sentiment Summary

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Great User Sentiment 83 reviews
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80%
of users recommend this product

Infor LN has a 'great' User Satisfaction Rating of 80% when considering 83 user reviews from 5 recognized software review sites.

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4.2 (7)
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3.6 (9)
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3.8 (34)
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4.5 (2)
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4.2 (31)

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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User Interface: When discussing the solution's interface and learning curve, approximately 57% of users said it's user-friendly.
Performance: Roughly 69% of users said they were satisfied with the platform’s centralization, customizations and workflows.
Features: When discussing Infor LN's modules, nearly 62% of users said they enjoyed the reporting, procurement, PLM, manufacturing and other inclusions.
Integrations: For third-party and additional system integrations, roughly 75% of users were satisfied.
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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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Outdated User Interface: Many users find the interface clunky and outdated compared to modern ERP systems. This can lead to a steeper learning curve and slower adoption rates among staff.
Customization Challenges: While Infor LN offers customization options, some users report that implementing these customizations can be complex and require significant technical expertise.
Reporting Limitations: Generating specific reports or extracting data in desired formats can be challenging for some users. This can hinder analysis and decision-making processes.
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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 Infor LN the "in" thing for manufacturers? Infor LN is a comprehensive manufacturing software solution designed to improve efficiency, productivity, and profitability. It offers a wide range of features to manage all aspects of manufacturing operations, from planning and scheduling to production and quality control. Infor LN also includes tools for tracking inventory, managing orders, and forecasting demand. While it is known for its ease of use, user reviews from the past year have been mixed. Some users have praised Infor LN for its robust functionality and ability to handle complex manufacturing processes. They appreciate the software's comprehensive feature set and its ability to integrate with other business systems. However, other users have reported experiencing technical difficulties and a lack of adequate customer support. Some have also found the software to be expensive compared to competitors like SAP and Oracle. Overall, Infor LN appears to be most suitable for large, complex manufacturing operations that require a comprehensive and integrated software solution. Smaller businesses or those with simpler manufacturing processes may find Infor LN to be too expensive and complex for their needs. It is important to note that software reviews can be subjective and vary depending on the specific needs and experiences of individual users.

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