AutoCAD vs Global Shop Solutions

Last Updated:

Our analysts compared AutoCAD 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.

Global Shop Solutions 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.
read more...
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.
read more...
$255/User, Monthly
Get a free price quote
Tailored to your specific needs
$18,000 Monthly
Free Trial is unavailable →
Get a free price quote
Tailored to your specific needs
Small 
i
Medium 
i
Large 
i
Small 
i
Medium 
i
Large 
i
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. 
read more...
  • 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.  
read more...
  • 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. 
read more...
  • 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. 
read more...

Product Ranking

#8

among all
Manufacturing Software

#12

among all
Manufacturing Software

Find out who the leaders are

User Sentiment Summary

Excellent User Sentiment 5388 reviews
Great User Sentiment 155 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

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

n/a
4.1 (18)
4.65 (2689)
4.2 (64)
4.6 (2699)
4.2 (67)
n/a
3.0 (6)

Awards

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

User Favorite Award

we're gathering data

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.
Show more
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.
Show more
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.
Show more
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.
Show more

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.

Show more

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.

Show more

Screenshots

Top Alternatives in Manufacturing Software


Acumatica

Aptean ERP

Cetec ERP

DELMIAworks

Dynamics 365 Business Central

Dynamics 365 SCM

Epicor Kinetic

JobBOSS²

Katana MRP

MIE Trak Pro

MRPEasy

NetSuite

Oracle Fusion Cloud

Plex Systems

Sage 100 Cloud

SAP S/4HANA Cloud

SYSPRO

SyteLine

Visibility ERP

Related Categories

WE DISTILL IT INTO REAL REQUIREMENTS, COMPARISON REPORTS, PRICE GUIDES and more...

Compare products
Comparison Report
Just drag this link to the bookmark bar.
?
Table settings