StartProto was proud to participate and exhibit at the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) last week in Chicago. With over 89,000 attendees and 1,700 exhibitors, there was a ton to see and learn.

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If IMTS 2024 taught us anything about manufacturing software, it’s this: integration and intelligence are taking over. Gone are the days when isolated, disconnected systems could survive in a competitive shop. Now, everything from ERP systems to machine learning tools are designed to talk to each other and boost productivity.

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This year, the focus was on smart manufacturing ecosystems. Manufacturers are using software to link up every aspect of their operation, from the factory floor to the front office. Real-time data is becoming the backbone of decision-making, helping manufacturers respond faster, anticipate issues, and cut inefficiencies before they snowball. This is where AI-driven systems step in, especially for predictive maintenance and quality control.

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One standout shift is how user-friendly these systems are becoming. The old days of complicated software that required a team of IT experts to manage are fading. Now, we’re seeing intuitive interfaces and plug-and-play modules that let you adapt without coding. Even robotic programming—once a pain point for many manufacturers—has been simplified, making automation more accessible than ever.

But it’s not just about automation; sustainability is becoming a critical part of the software conversation. With growing pressure to reduce waste, conserve energy, and meet stricter environmental regulations, manufacturers are turning to green tech solutions within their software ecosystems. From energy-efficient CNC machines to tools that optimize material use in real-time, open source manufacturing software is now a key player in the shift toward more sustainable operations.