Custom development

Inventor ERP integration: parts lists without retyping

The model is finished, and someone types the parts list into the ERP again, line by line. We build the link between Autodesk Inventor and the import your ERP already offers.

What usually gets typed twice

Every one of these already exists in the Inventor model. Retyping them costs time, and a single wrong quantity or part number can reach purchasing or production.

The parts list

Structure, quantities and item positions from the Inventor BOM.

Item data

Part number, description, material and mass from the iProperties.

Sheet metal and documents

Flat pattern width, length and area for costing, plus the PDF, DXF or STEP file that belongs to each item.

How it works

How an Inventor–ERP link is built

Look at both ends

What your ERP accepts, whether a file import such as CSV, XML or Excel, a database table or a web API, and how your Inventor assemblies are structured.

Agree the mapping and the price

Which iProperty goes into which ERP field, the rules for purchased, Content Center and phantom parts, and a fixed-price quote before any work starts.

Build it into Inventor

As an add-in or iLogic rule, tested on your real assemblies and handed over with a signed installer and documentation.

Honest comparison

Your ERP vendor’s connector, or a custom link?

Many ERP vendors offer their own CAD connector. If it covers your process, use it. A custom link is worth it when:

The structures differ

Your Inventor BOM is organised differently from the structure the ERP expects.

You need more data

For example sheet metal flat pattern sizes, which a standard connector does not transfer.

Your rules are your own

Part numbering or release follows company-specific rules, or a one-way export is all you need.

No development needed? If an Excel parts list is enough for your ERP import, SMDC already exports one, including flat pattern sizes, along with DXF and STEP files. Try it free for 15 days.

FAQ

Questions about an ERP link

Which ERP systems can you connect to?

The link uses the interface your ERP provides, so it is not tied to one vendor. Tell us which system you use and we check its import options before quoting.

Which Inventor versions are supported?

Autodesk Inventor 2018 up to the current release.

What does it cost?

You get a fixed-price quote once we know your ERP import and your assemblies, before any work starts.

What happens when a new Inventor version comes out?

Optional yearly maintenance keeps the tool working with each new Inventor release.

Which ERP do you use?

Tell us your system and show us a typical parts list. We will tell you whether a standard connector, an add-in or a custom link fits.

Talk to us about your ERP link Custom Service