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Metalwork & FABRICATION Software

We build Custom Software for Metalworks

Running a metalworks and fabrication operation shouldn’t mean juggling spreadsheets, disconnected tools, and manual processes. At ioSTUDIOS, we specialise in metalworks software development â€“ tailored systems for your business that streamline everything from sheet metal fabrication to CNC machine integration, quoting, and production tracking.

Vision Manufacturing-Software

Why off-the-shelf Metalworks Software falls short?

Generic programs often miss key features your metalworks operation needs.

They aren’t built to handle the precision, complexity, or variety in sheet metal work, press brake jobs, or CAD file integration. 

Off-the-shelf solutions just don’t cut it for specialised metalwork.

Poor CAD/CNCintegration

Struggles connecting with design tools

Generic systemPoor CAD/CNC Integration
Struggles connecting with design tools
Generic systems can’t seamlessly integrate with your CAD software and CNC machines, creating bottlenecks in your production workflow.

Inefficient design workflows

For metal parts with specific requirements

Standard software lacks tools for designers working on metal parts with specific thickness, angles, and dimensions.

Limited process support

For specialised metalworking operations.

No specialised tools for managing laser cutting, bending processes, or sheet metal components unique to your operation.

Poor visibility

Across machines, tools, and jobs

Limited real-time visibility across your workshop makes it difficult to track jobs, optimize resources, and meet deadlines.

Time consuming workarounds

For basic metalwork management

Your team wastes hours on manual processes because the software doesn’t handle your specific metalworking needs.

Poor user experience

For designers, operators, and managers

Clunky interfaces and confusing workflows frustrate users and create resistance to adoption in your workshop.

Off-the-shelf software

  • Usually designed for broad business processes, not the specific workflows of metal fabrication or sheet metal work
  • Can be quick and easy to install, helping you get started with basic admin or stock management
  • Benefits from automatic updates and solid technical support as part of a global user base
  • Entry-level packages can seem like good value, especially when you’re just starting out
  • However, enterprise-level solutions for manufacturing can be eye-wateringly expensive – sometimes exceeding £100,000 a year
  • Because these systems are built for a mass market, you’ll struggle to gain a true competitive advantage or customise them for your unique production environment
  • Customisation options are limited, making it hard to quickly adapt the software to specific shop-floor processes, custom machinery, or niche reporting needs
  • You’ll rarely own the source code or intellectual property, so you’re always reliant on the software provider’s roadmap and priorities

Bespoke software

  • Purpose-built to fit your exact operational requirements, whether you’re running CNCs, laser cutters, press brakes, or specialist finishing lines
  • Gives you complete freedom to add new features, integrate with CAD/CAM tools, or automate workshop data collection as your business evolves
  • Provides the potential for real competitive advantage, allowing you to streamline unique processes and outpace generic competitors
  • ✓ Full ownership of the source code and IP can add tangible value to your business and reduce long-term risk
  • Ongoing support, maintenance, and updates can be handled via a Service Level Agreement with ioSTUDIOS’s trusted Help and Support team
  • Can be supported, maintained and updated via Service Level Agreement with ioSTUDIOS’s well regarded Help and Support Team
  • Initial development costs are usually higher and roll-out may take a bit longer, but the end result is a system that fits your workshop like a glove

Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Many metalworks businesses come to us after trying multiple systems that never quite aligned with how they actually operate.

Ready to get started?

At ioSTUDIOS, we believe in creating business changing custom made software that meets your businesses requirements.

Whether you’re a small business looking to streamline it’s processes or a large enterprise seeking a system-led competitive edge, our development team is on hand to create a solution that will enhance and evolve your company.

Let’s talk.

We’re here to help and are hapy to answer any queries you may have.

Software built around your Metal Fabrication process

Every workshop is unique. So is your metal design software. We create tools tailored to your business – whether you’re focused on precision welding, press brake automation, or handling large production volumes.

Job tracking system

Track every stage of your manufacturing process from initial quote to final delivery with real-time status updates.

CAD drawing integration

Seamlessly import and manage CAD files with simulation and design modification tools tailored for metalwork.

Inventory management

Track raw materials, components, and finished products with automated reordering and material optimisation.

Machine scheduling

Optimise production schedules across laser, bending, and punching stations to maximise throughput and minimise downtime.

Documentation management

Centralise all project documents, including CSV files, specifications, and quality control records in one accessible location.

Quality control & metrics

Monitor real-time quality control data and efficiency metrics to identify bottlenecks and optimise production.

CAD/CAM systems

Seamless integration with SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, and other ERP platforms for accurate financial tracking.

CNC machine integration

Connect with vehicle telematics to capture real-time data on location, fuel usage, driver behaviour, and vehicle health.

ERP systems

Integrate with email, SMS, and messaging platforms for streamlined customer and driver communication.

Quality assurance rools

Connect with compliance databases to ensure all vehicles and drivers meet current regulations and certifications.

CRM systems

Integrate with your existing CRM to maintain a single source of truth for all client relationships.

API development

Custom API development to connect with your existing proprietary or legacy software systems.

Workshop Floor App

  • View job details and technical drawings on the shop floor
  • Log production progress and material usage in real-time
  • Report quality issues with photo documentation
  • Access work instructions and technical specifications offline
  • Scan materials and components for accurate inventory tracking

Manager Dashboard

  • Real-time production overview with interactive dashboards
  • Drag-and-drop scheduling for machines and workstations
  • Instant alerts for production issues or material shortages
  • Approve design changes and quote adjustments remotely
  • Performance analytics and optimisation suggestions

Cross-Platform Compatibility

All our mobile solutions are developed for both iOS and Android platforms, with responsive web applications that work on any device. We can advise on the best approach for your specific needs during our discovery process.

“We develop software that reflects how you cut, bend, form, and create.”

From CAD Concept to CNC Code – Our Proven Process

Our agile approach ensures your custom solution mirrors your manufacturing process, from material selection to final product delivery. Our agile process means you get a system that works exactly how you need it to.

Discovery & Definition

We listen to your business requirements and objectives to decipher what is the optimal approach and whether any RnD is required.

A definition of the system is then established and showcased via a range of discovery resources.

Style Guide, Prototyping & User Stories

Key outputs of Discovery include a full UX prototype, with a complete UI style guide, that achieves a 95%+ life-like visual of your solution.

User stories will accompany this, to provide clarity for any debatable logic and functions.

Software Development

Once the outputs from Discovery are signed-off, our Development Team will begin iteratively building your solution out in code, in Development.

This will be led by a Technical Lead, who issues briefing cards and conducts daily catch-ups.

Internal QA & UAT

To achieve a robust solution that meets the brief, our Development Team will test their own work, followed by a full review by a QA Specialist.

After this a UAT Plan is issued, enabling our client to efficiently complete a full UAT exercise.

Deployment & Go-Live

Once the UAT site has been signed off a Deployment date and time will be scheduled – in which we will make the solution operational.

As part of this hosting config. and roll-back/contingency options will be explored and agreed.

Ongoing Support & Maintenance

After launch, our well trusted and highly regarded Support Team will be on hand to assist with any ad-hoc bug fixing, user issues and technical upgrades.

Any new system additions and/or changes can also be explored in a new project.

SUCCESS sTORY

Case Study: Digital Transformation in Sheet Metal Fabrication

See how our custom solutions have transformed a Metal Fabrication businesses like yours.

The challenge.

Managing production across multiple teams and complex workflows, this metal fabrication company needed a more efficient, exception-based system to replace spreadsheets and proactively identify bottlenecks in order to meet global demand for diverse, precision-engineered components.

The solution.

To streamline production across a multi-team metal fabrication facility, we developed a fully automated, real-time factory floor system that integrates with the company’s CRM, enables live planning and replanning via interactive Gantt charts, and gives supervisors full visibility and control – transforming complex workflows into a coordinated, highly efficient operation.

The result.

By giving management full visibility and control across the factory floor, our custom built system helps this metal fabrication company proactively eliminate bottlenecks, reduce lead times by 15%, save hundreds of production hours annually, and gain valuable insights into team performance and job efficiency. All delivered through a configurable, scalable platform built for long-term growth.

Frequently asked questions

If you have any questions then don’t hesitate to contact us or please feel free to read our FAQs

Why work with ioSTUDIOS?

We’re a UK-based software team with 16+ years of experience developing business-changing platforms in sectors like metalworks, manufacturing, and engineering. We turn your processes into powerful, digital tools – built for the real world of precision components, angles, cuts, and deadlines.

16+ years experience

Over 16 years of software development experience across industries, including transport and logistics.

UK based team

An award-winning, UK-based team of inhouse specialists – no outsourcing to ensure quality and communication.

End to end delivery

Complete service from UX design to QA testing and post-launch support with a dedicated team.

Scalable solutions

Future proof systems that grow with your fleet and adapt as your needs evolve over time.

Transparent approach

Clear communication, regular updates, and a dedicated product owner throughout your project.

Proven ROI

Track record in delivering ROI focused, process-improving platforms that pay for themselves.

Based in Solihull,
Birmingham

From our Solihull base in Birmingham, we serve clients across the UK – helping businesses like yours embrace digital transformation through bespoke software that truly delivers.

Based in Solihull, Birmingham

From our Solihull base in Birmingham, we serve clients across the UK – helping businesses like yours embrace digital transformation through bespoke software that truly delivers.

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