When you're launching or scaling a machine shop, it’s easy to think of software as a cost—something you "have to have" just to get by. But what if your tech stack could become your sharpest competitive edge? 

In this episode of the Machine Shop MBA series, we are joined by returning guest and digital strategy expert Bryce Barnes to unpack why your software decisions might matter more than your next CNC machine purchase. They explore how an intentional, integrated digital backbone isn’t just for managing data—it’s about accelerating sales, boosting throughput, and future-proofing your shop.

We share our own journeys with building digital infrastructure from scratch, transitioning off spreadsheets, and how we now see our systems as a key part of our brand. The reality is, when your systems are dialed in, they don’t just save time—they win work. We’ve seen it ourselves: customers are more confident, audits are smoother, and top talent is easier to attract when you run a modern, connected operation.

We break down the key components of a modern machine shop's digital ecosystem—from ERP and QMS to CAD/CAM, CRM, and even the email domain you choose when naming your business. We explain how integrations reduce risk and waste, why starting early simplifies everything later, and how a great tech stack not only saves time but wins customers.

Whether you're quoting parts on an Excel sheet, trying to choose your first ERP, or just curious how cloud, AI, and machine monitoring can fit into your daily operations, this episode is an essential listen. It's not a tech tutorial—it’s a business strategy conversation every shop owner needs to hear. The takeaway? Don’t tack on software as an afterthought. Build your shop around it.

Segments

• (0:00) Broken spreadsheets and the hidden dangers of quoting errors
• (0:35) Let ProShop ERP help you achieve on-time delivery 
• (2:10) Why the MBA series is resonating with startup shop owners
• (3:26) From machines to mindsets: introducing the digital backbone
• (5:32) What a tech stack actually includes (and why it matters early)
• (6:48) How shops can and should go paperless
• (8:29) Email addresses, domains, and the perception of professionalism
• (9:10) Tech stack mindset: cost center vs. competitive advantage
• (13:21) CRM, marketing, and quoting: connecting the whole flow
• (16:54) The case for seamless data flow and integration
• (18:10) Human input, machine monitoring, and minimizing mistakes
• (20:11) Designing your workflows digitally, not retrofitting after
• (21:35) The value of ERP systems built specifically for machine shops
• (25:58) Grow your top and bottom line with CLA
• (27:42) A jaw-dropping machine monitoring story from aerospace
• (29:45) Where to start with scale: communications and safety
• (32:40) Matching tech stack to business model (high-mix vs. high-volume)
• (35:02) Involving your team in tech decisions increases buy-in and success
• (36:13) Choosing tools with a strong community and support ecosystem
• (39:00) Pros and cons of cloud infrastructure for manufacturers
• (43:30) The hidden cost of old tech: attracting and retaining talent
• (46:30) Getting IT help doesn’t mean hiring full-time staff
• (47:00) A lean and logical order to build your tech stack from day one
• (50:00) Don’t forget cybersecurity—it’s essential, not optional
• (51:40) Why early investment pays off more than late retrofitting
• (53:00) Your tech stack is also your sales pitch
• (54:00) The virtuous cycle of the right tools: fewer mistakes, more wins
• (55:35) What’s next: Building your brand and growing your sales 

Resources mentioned on this episode

• Tech Stack Checklist 
• Your 6-Step Guide to Achieving Over 95% On-Time Delivery
• ProShop ERP
• Paperless Parts
• Grow your top and bottom line with CLA
• Quickbooks
• Xero

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