AutoCAD vs Fishbowl Manufacturing

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Our analysts compared AutoCAD vs Fishbowl Manufacturing based on data from our 400+ point analysis of Manufacturing Software, user reviews and our own crowdsourced data from our free software selection platform.

Fishbowl Manufacturing Software Tool

Product Basics

AutoCAD is a computer-aided design system that drafts accurate 2D and 3D product designs. It develops, documents and crafts 2D shapes and 3D models via surfaces, solids and other types. It's customizable with integrated apps and APIs.

Its main offerings include performance enhancements, sharing, fast measure, layouts, tables and rendering. It streamlines drawing comparisons, counting, scheduling, block adding and other responsibilities automatically. It's available for Windows and Mac OS.
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Fishbowl Manufacturing is an ERP that keeps users one step ahead of their competitors by automating intricate tasks and time tracking. It monitors inventory and streamlines production to ensure products are delivered to patrons in a timely manner.

Work orders, bill of materials (BOM), shipping, inventory management and barcode scanning are a few of its quintessential features.
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$255/User, Monthly
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Tailored to your specific needs
$329 Monthly
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Tailored to your specific needs
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Windows
Mac
Linux
Android
Chromebook
Windows
Mac
Linux
Android
Chromebook
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile

Product Assistance

Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support
Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support

Product Insights

  • Quick Feedback: Add feedback to DWG files without altering drawings, saving time in the design process. 
  • Flexible Windows: Tug and shift windows to showcase information side by side or on numerous monitors to keep track of everything in one place. 
  • Easy Sharing: Allocate shared drawing copies to colleagues with real-time technology for remote access anywhere at any time and faster deliberations. 
  • Rapid Conversions: Transform CAD drawing sheets into PDFs or CAD files for quick distribution. 
  • Automatic Prompt Counting: Leverage instant counting blocks or shapes to boost productivity and reduce errors. 
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  • Track Jobs: Track employee hours, overtime, payroll, vacation time and other information with the labor and job tracking module. Users may also implement GPS tracking to verify where employees clock in and out and permit employees to clock in and out from any mobile device. 
  • In-Depth BOMs: Add subassemblies, several finished goods and intricate units of measure via the bill of materials accessory. Users can produce and complete numerous BOMs at once in addition to writing thorough instructions and attaching pictures for each step of a BOM. 
  • Manage Serial & Lot Numbers: Rapidly track parts with serial and lot numbers with the serial and lot number feature. Users may also review expiration dates, batch numbers and revision levels along with lot history and part audit trails. 
  • Work with Multiple Locations: Upkeep inventory throughout several worksites and warehouses, enabling users to get as detailed or extensive as necessary to find the right parts or workpieces. This attribute enables users to automatically restock inventory levels by moving products from one site to another. 
  • Integrate with Other Software: Link CRM software, such as Salesforce and Zoho CRM and other programs, to Fishbowl Manufacturing to check the availability of product amounts, prices and other product intel. 
  • BI Capabilities: Find out manufacturing costs and receive the most accurate costs of raw goods and materials with the BI suite. Users may also produce detailed reports on several business operations and utilize inventory data to formulate smarter business decisions.  
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  • 2D Drafting, Drawing and Annotation
    • Views: Name and save views effortlessly. Return to specific filters for reference or to add viewports. 
    • Purge: Delete several unneeded items via selection and object preview options. 
    • Arrays: Construct and edit models in circular, rectangular or straight paths 
  • 3D Modeling and Visualization
    • Rendering: Add lighting and particular materials to offer realistic 3D designs. These features also improve design communications. 
    • Visual Styles: Utilize these styles to manage edge, lighting and shading displays on 3D models. 
    • Model Documentation: Produce bases, projections, sections, detail views and other 2D drawings from 3D models. 
  • Collaboration
    • DWG Compare: Compare two drawings in the same window. 
    • Model References and Import: Add Navisworks models for drawings and input. 
    • Sheet Sets: Review, manage and plan numerous blueprints in different sheet sets. 
  • Installation and Customization
    • CUI Customization: Tailor user interfaces to strengthen accessibility while diminishing routine assignment phases. 
    • Action Recorder: Document commands and enter playback values as action macros. 
    • CAD Standards Checker: Initiate and watch CAD regulations to upkeep fluent layer, line type, text and dimension styles. 
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  • Manufacturing: Superintend advanced work orders, manufacture orders, BOMs and more with the manufacturing apparatus. Users may also execute automatic custom, batch or repair work orders. 
  • Barcode Scanning: Construct inventory and manufacturing records with precision by accessing the barcode scanning tool. It executes cycle counts, enables users to pick, pack and ship goods and complete work orders as well as produce sales orders and update intricate part details. 
  • Inventory Management: Track products that are going to clients, develop reorder points for every item in a facility and cipher the suitable reorder quantity for every inventory item with the inventory management appliance. 
  • Production Stages: Craft multi-layered work orders that showcase the progress of each job that users receive to ensure everything is on schedule or to make certain adjustments for jobs that are falling behind. It designates duties to particular employees and even determines yield and waste estimates for every stage. 
  • Shipping: Integrate Fishbowl with other shipping solutions to expeditiously create shipping labels and synchronize shipping costs, tracking numbers, client addresses, weights and more so packages get to the right destination. 
  • Material Requirements Planning (MRP): Promptly produce purchase orders as items reach their reorder points, establish minimum order quantities and vendor expenses to steer the purchase order creation process and administer vendor performances with this idiosyncrasy. 
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Product Ranking

#8

among all
Manufacturing Software

#6

among all
Manufacturing Software

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User Sentiment Summary

Excellent User Sentiment 5388 reviews
Great User Sentiment 707 reviews
92%
of users recommend this product

AutoCAD has a 'excellent' User Satisfaction Rating of 92% when considering 5388 user reviews from 2 recognized software review sites.

83%
of users recommend this product

Fishbowl Manufacturing has a 'great' User Satisfaction Rating of 83% when considering 707 user reviews from 4 recognized software review sites.

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4.6 (14)
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3.3 (62)
4.65 (2689)
4.2 (629)
4.6 (2699)
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4.0 (2)

Awards

AutoCAD stands above the rest by achieving an ‘Excellent’ rating as a User Favorite.

User Favorite Award

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Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Precise Measurements and Technical Drawings: AutoCAD's tools enable the creation of highly accurate and detailed technical drawings, which are essential for manufacturing processes. The software's precision ensures that designs can be reliably translated into physical products.
3D Modeling and Visualization: AutoCAD facilitates the creation of 3D models, allowing manufacturers to visualize and test product designs before production. This capability helps identify potential design flaws and optimize products for functionality and aesthetics.
Streamlined Collaboration and Communication: AutoCAD files can be easily shared among team members, suppliers, and clients, promoting efficient collaboration and communication throughout the manufacturing process. The software's standardized file formats ensure compatibility and reduce the risk of miscommunication.
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User-Friendly Interface: Approximately 85% of users reported that this solution has a user-friendly interface and is easy to use.
Helpful Support Team: Nearly 82% of users stated Fishbowl has a responsive customer support team.
Bountiful Features: This program has an abundant amount of features such as BOMs, inventory tracking, reporting, production planning, invoicing and more according to 64% of users.
Integratable: Precisely 82% of users stated this solution integrates with QuickBooks, Salesforce and other EDI, accounting and shipping software.
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Cost: The significant upfront cost and ongoing subscription fees can be a barrier for smaller businesses or independent designers.
Complexity: The software's extensive features and functionalities can present a steep learning curve for new users, potentially hindering productivity.
Resource Consumption: AutoCAD's demanding hardware requirements can necessitate investments in powerful computers to ensure smooth operation, especially for complex projects.
Collaboration Challenges: Collaboration among team members or with external partners can be cumbersome, often requiring additional software or cloud-based solutions.
File Compatibility: Sharing or exchanging design files with users of other CAD software can lead to compatibility issues, potentially causing delays or requiring file conversions.
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Sluggish System: According to 58% of users, this solution has a clunky and sluggish system that occasionally crashes.
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Since its debut in 1982, AutoCAD has become a cornerstone within the computer-aided design (CAD) software industry. It's renowned for its robust capabilities in creating intricate 2D and 3D designs, making it a go-to for professionals across various sectors such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing. User reviews from the past year highlight both the strengths and weaknesses of this software. AutoCAD's powerful drafting tools and extensive library of symbols and templates are frequently praised. Its ability to handle complex 3D modeling and generate precise technical drawings is a significant advantage over competitors like SolidWorks and CATIA, especially for projects requiring a high degree of detail and customization. However, the steep learning curve and the software's high cost can be deterrents for some users. Additionally, while AutoCAD excels in 2D drafting and 3D modeling, it may not be as specialized as some industry-specific software options when it comes to simulations or certain types of engineering analysis. Overall, AutoCAD is best suited for experienced professionals who require a versatile and powerful CAD software for creating complex designs. Its comprehensive features and industry-standard file format make it an ideal choice for large-scale projects and collaboration across different disciplines. However, beginners or those on a tight budget may want to explore alternative options that offer a more user-friendly interface and a lower price point. Keep in mind that the software landscape is constantly evolving, so it's always a good idea to check for the latest updates and comparisons before making a decision.

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Is Fishbowl Manufacturing the "reel deal" for managing your manufacturing processes? Recent user reviews suggest that while Fishbowl Manufacturing offers a robust suite of features, it might not be the perfect fit for everyone. Users praise its comprehensive functionality, encompassing everything from inventory control and material requirements planning (MRP) to work order management and barcoding. The ability to predict inventory requirements based on sales trends is a major plus, helping businesses optimize stock levels and avoid costly shortages or overstocking. Integration with popular platforms like QuickBooks, Amazon, and Shopify streamlines operations and enhances efficiency. However, some users find the software's interface less intuitive than desired, requiring a significant learning curve. Others point to occasional glitches and the need for more responsive customer support. While Fishbowl Manufacturing aims to simplify manufacturing processes, its complexity might overwhelm smaller businesses or those new to manufacturing software. Ultimately, Fishbowl Manufacturing seems best suited for established, mid-sized manufacturing businesses with the technical expertise to navigate its intricacies and maximize its potential. Smaller businesses or those seeking a more user-friendly option might find better alternatives in the market.

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