AutoCAD vs QAD ERP

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

QAD ERP 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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QAD ERP is a comprehensive manufacturing software solution designed to streamline and integrate core business processes across manufacturing organizations. It's particularly well-suited for mid-sized to large manufacturers in industries such as automotive, consumer products, food and beverage, life sciences, and industrial equipment. Key benefits include improved visibility and control over operations, enhanced collaboration, and boosted productivity. Popular features encompass financial management, supply chain management, production planning, inventory management, quality management, and customer relationship management. According to user experiences, QAD ERP stands out for its deep industry-specific capabilities, user-friendly interface, and strong customer support. Pricing is typically based on a per-user, per-month subscription model, with costs varying depending on the number of users, modules, and deployment options.

Pros
  • Industry-specific features
  • User-friendly interface
  • Strong customer support
  • Improved visibility and control
  • Enhanced collaboration
Cons
  • Complex implementation
  • High customization costs
  • Steeper learning curve
  • Limited reporting capabilities
  • Potential integration challenges
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$255/User, Monthly
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$5,000/User, Monthly
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Windows
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Chromebook
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On-Premise
Mobile
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On-Premise
Mobile

Product Assistance

Documentation
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Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Documentation
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Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support
Email
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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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  • Improve Communication: Communicate with suppliers by providing them access to the QAD Supplier Portal. Additionally, QAD Cloud EDI provides translation and communication services that work with QAD Cloud eCommerce. The result is end-to-end communication with trade partners. 
  • Increase Throughput: The system uses “Drum-Buffer-Rope” techniques to optimize the supply chain. Employees can receive automatic notifications when there are backorders or shortages that will affect the manufacturing process. 
  • Better Visibility: Better visibility allows you to be aware of demand changes and work quickly to accommodate them. The analytics dashboard provides the user with unified data from multiple sources and the product genealogy feature tracks products. Other features that provide better visibility include the CRM feature, which supplies customer service technicians with all customer information they could need. The financial management module allows the user to view key financial information. 
  • Maximize Productivity: QAD Warehousing reduces the need for additional labor and makes current warehouse employees more productive. The system uses consolidated picking to reduce traffic and enable multiple tasks within each trip in the warehouse. 
  • Make Strategic Business Decisions:  From analytics to budgeting, the system supplies users with the tools to make well-informed and data-driven business decisions. The user has instant access to this information from any mobile device, so you’re able to make business decisions anytime, anywhere.  
  • Governance, Risk and Compliance:  Ensure you are staying compliant with your financial reports concerning regulations such as Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) or J-SOX. 
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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: Track products throughout the production process, print labels, gain visibility into plans, schedules and supporting data. Lean manufacturing improves quality and eliminates waste. The Master Scheduling Workbench allows you to simulate changes to the schedule before you confirm changes to it.  
  • Supply Chain Management: You can plan, track and manage costs through the Distribution Requirements Planning feature. The QAD Supplier Portal allows you to share information about inventory, scheduling, purchase orders, shipments and more with your suppliers. QAD Warehousing handles complex warehouses and high volume picking. You can access pending acquisitions from your mobile device.  
  • Customer Management: The CRM feature provides a 360-degree view of your customer interactions and processes sales orders and invoices. The Customer Self Service feature provides the user with a web store-front that you can match to your own website’s branding. The configurator allows for mass production of customized products that may be delivered from any facility, no matter where the user initially did the configuration. Customer service and support run the entire services lifecycle, from managing service orders to providing all customer information that servicing personnel could need to perform their job. 
  • Financial Management: A general ledger, accounts receivable and payable are made available to you through the financial management feature. Other capabilities include multi-currency, cost management, credit management, budgeting and financial analysis. The system generates periodic or ad-hoc corporate and governmental reports, consolidates financial records and manages and tracks freight costs.  
  • Analytics: QAD BI displays your data at a single source, and users can access this information from any mobile device. You can create and run reports while managing your business processes with this feature.  
  • Integration: The software comes with robust ERP system integration solutions. QAD Cloud EDI streamlines communication between customers and suppliers, while QAD EDI eCommerce provides tighter integration with your trading partners. QAD Boomi AtomSphere can connect cloud applications to on-premise applications without requiring any additional hardware. QAD Q-Xtend automates data synchronization and eliminates both manual data entry and custom interfaces maintenance.  
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Product Ranking

#8

among all
Manufacturing Software

#18

among all
Manufacturing Software

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User Sentiment Summary

Excellent User Sentiment 5388 reviews
Good User Sentiment 54 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.

74%
of users recommend this product

QAD ERP has a 'good' User Satisfaction Rating of 74% when considering 54 user reviews from 3 recognized software review sites.

n/a
3.4 (12)
4.65 (2689)
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4.6 (2699)
3.9 (14)
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3.7 (28)

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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Enhanced Visibility and Control: Gain real-time insights into production, inventory, and finances to make informed decisions and proactively address issues.
Streamlined Operations: Automate manual tasks, reduce errors, and improve process efficiency across various manufacturing functions.
Improved Collaboration: Facilitate better communication and data sharing between departments, breaking down silos and enhancing teamwork.
Scalability and Flexibility: Adapt to changing business needs and growth, accommodating new users, locations, and processes seamlessly.
Industry-Specific Features: Benefit from pre-built functionality and best practices tailored to specific manufacturing industries, such as automotive, food and beverage, and life sciences.
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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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Complex Implementation: Requires significant upfront investment and technical expertise for setup and configuration.
High Customization Costs: Extensive customization can be expensive and time-consuming.
Steeper Learning Curve: User interface can be complex and require training for efficient use.
Limited Reporting Capabilities: Out-of-the-box reporting may not meet all needs, requiring additional development.
Potential Integration Challenges: Integrating with existing systems can be complex and require specialized skills.
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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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User reviews of QAD ERP reveal a love-hate relationship. Fans tout its industry-specific muscle and enhanced control, with one user gushing, "It's like SAP on steroids for automakers; we finally have real-time visibility into production flows." However, its complexity can be daunting. "Compared to Acumatica," admits another, "QAD has a steeper learning curve, but its customization blows it out of the water, especially for our intricate assembly lines." The customization aspect is a double-edged sword. "Implementing QAD was an Everest-sized task," laments one reviewer, "and ongoing tweaks can be pricey compared to something like NetSuite." In the end, user experiences suggest QAD shines for manufacturers craving a highly configurable and industry-specific platform, but be prepared to invest sweat and tears (and dollars) in implementation and training.

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