---
title: "How OpenSpindle Works -- Matching Projects to Vetted Shops"
description: "See how OpenSpindle matches your custom fabrication project to vetted CNC shops: RFQ submission, shop matching, competitive bidding, and project delivery."
canonical: https://openspindle.com/how-it-works
---

# How OpenSpindle Works

OpenSpindle is shop management software for CNC and fabrication shops. It also operates a marketplace where buyers source custom fabrication work from vetted shops.

## For Shop Owners: How a Job Moves Through OpenSpindle

OpenSpindle connects every stage of a job into one system so shop owners always know what is happening, what is due, and what gets billed.

1. **RFQ In** -- Every channel lands in one feed. DXF attached, context captured. Nothing slips into email.
2. **Build the Quote** -- Use the cost library to build a quote from actual machine rates, material costs, and labor. Send in minutes.
3. **Schedule the Job** -- Job drops onto the machine calendar. Conflicts surface before they become missed deadlines.
4. **Run Production** -- Production stages tracked live. Floor display shows what is running now. No walks to the whiteboard.
5. **Invoice and Get Paid** -- Invoice from actual job costs. No retyping. Tied to the original quote.

## For Buyers: How the Marketplace Works

Upload your project once, match with CNC shops that have real capacity, and get organized quotes -- without chasing shops or guessing availability.

1. **Upload and Specify** -- Upload your drawings (CAD, DXF, PDF). Define materials, finishes, and tolerances.
2. **Smart Matching** -- OpenSpindle matches your project to shops with the exact machinery and expertise required.
3. **Compare Quotes** -- Receive organized quotes in 24-48 hours. Review, compare, and approve.
4. **Production and Delivery** -- Track milestones and receive your custom fabricated pieces on schedule.

**Accepted file formats:** DXF, DWG, PDF, STEP, IGES, and most common CAD formats. Sketches and reference images also accepted.

## What OpenSpindle Replaces for Shops

- Quoting spreadsheets
- Scheduling whiteboards
- Disconnected invoicing software
- Email-based customer communication
- Manual job status tracking

## Related Pages

- [Platform Overview](https://openspindle.com/features.md)
- [CNC Machine Shop Software](https://openspindle.com/solutions/cnc-machine-shop-software.md)
- [Client Workspace](https://openspindle.com/features/customer-portal.md)
- [Quoting and Invoicing](https://openspindle.com/features/invoicing.md)
- [Scheduling](https://openspindle.com/features/scheduling.md)
- [About OpenSpindle](https://openspindle.com/about.md)