Tool comparison
Browser instead of desktop.
Traditional software for factory and layout planning usually runs locally on individual workstations. matflow is fully web-based and built for teamwork. Here is what that means in practice.
| Criterion | matflow | Typical desktop planning software |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | None — runs in the browser | Local installation on each workstation |
| Operating system | Platform-independent (Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Safari) | Usually tied to one operating system |
| Updates | Automatic, for all users at once | Manual updates, often handled by IT |
| 2D/3D layout planning | In the browser, with DWG/DXF import | On the desktop, with CAD import |
| Material flow analysis | From-to matrix, transport intensities, visualisation in the layout | Integrated or done separately in Excel, depending on the product |
| Variant comparison | Several variants with KPIs side by side | Often kept as separate files |
| Collaboration | Share links, comments in the plan, version history | Files sent by email or shared drive |
| Involving stakeholders | Share a link — view and comment without a licence | PDF export or a separate licence required |
| Hosting / data location | EU cloud (Microsoft Azure, Europe region) | Locally on workstations or company servers |
| As-built data from 3D scans | Siteviewer integration: plan inside the scanned building | Usually only via manually redrawn CAD plans |
The right-hand column describes typical characteristics of locally installed planning software and does not refer to any specific product. Individual solutions may differ.