The software developer MakerOS has made its comprehensive business management software for 3D printing available for free.
In order to “democratize product development”, the company wants to make it easier for engineers, designers and SMEs in digital manufacturing to develop in an already highly competitive market. Larger companies can also take advantage of additional paid premium services if required.
Mike Moceri, MakerOS CEO and Founder said, “There is a great opportunity for new companies to get involved in the industry and for existing medium and large companies to grow and increase their margins with the MakerOS platform. We have already proven this with some of our customers. “
The MakerOS user interface and the integrated 3D part viewer. Photo via MakerOS.
What is MakerOS?
The MakerOS software platform includes a number of tools that can help 3D printing companies better manage their manufacturing operations. The all-in-one product fulfills the requirements for a wide range of functions such as order calculation, project management, customer relations and even a 3D file viewer in one place. The heart of the software consists of a user-friendly project management and job submission system. The centralized dashboard is accessible to both manufacturers and customers. It promotes a collaborative environment and enables continuous project transparency.
MakerOS also has an Autoquoter that automates the parts quotation process with ease. The Autoquoter is compatible with almost every established 3D printer and also synchronizes with a company’s current inventory. This leads to offers that are more precisely priced and more realistic in terms of time.
MakerOS goes a step further and also offers its own custom online invoicing system that allows users to create and send accessible invoices while keeping track of payment status. The company has even partnered with payment system developer Stripe to expand their range of payment options.
Finally, the platform allows any manufacturing company to add a personalized customer portal to their website, which offers a free project entry system to improve efficiency and productivity. The portal consolidates everything related to the project in one place and even enables real-time chat functions to ensure excellent customer communication at every stage of the 3D printing workflow.
John Kray, founder and CEO of Hydra Research, a MakerOS customer, added: “MakerOS has really optimized our project management for our 3D services. The biggest benefit we’ve seen is the ability to have all communication, CAD / reference files and invoices accessible in one easy-to-use online portal. “
MakerOS offers functions for job calculation, project management and customer relationship management in one place. Image via MakerOS.
Workflow management software in 3D printing
While MakerOS may not be the only business management software in the 3D printing industry, it is creating a niche for smaller customers with limited funding. Free MakerOS package users get 10 employee licenses, 30 GB of file storage and unlimited customer slots. However, the business package may be more suitable for larger customers. The premium option is priced at $ 239 per month and offers 20 employee licenses, 300GB of file storage, unlimited API access, a VoIP phone system, and ongoing email and phone support.
Software developer 3D Control Systems, the parent company of 3DPrinterOS, recently launched its own workflow management software for additive manufacturing, ZAP. The AI-based platform is designed to help manufacturers reduce operating costs and improve production efficiency with a full suite of production management functions, including a machine-independent MES.
The software provider Gravity Pull Systems recently launched a workflow optimization system for industrial 3D printing. The software, called Synoptik, is aimed at service offices and manufacturing companies that serve a variety of industries such as aerospace, medicine and the automotive industry.
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The image shown shows the MakerOS user interface and the built-in 3D part viewer. Photo via MakerOS.
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