Ways machine shops can better manage tools and tool data

So, you've inherited older and/or disjointed systems and processes (and perhaps an unhelpful company culture) but you want to gain a competitive edge. What to do? Look at how systems can be integrated with a centralized tooling database, not at each individual process as a separate entity, Dan Speidel of TDM Systems says. Make sure you digitally tie and integrate the tool crib with CAM systems and machine controller. Getting control over inventory and tools in the shop is doable, he said, giving as an example Wagstaff . "This is the industrial revolution we have all been waiting for," he said, welcoming the "digital food chain" and the move to SaaS in manufacturing.