OUR PRODUCTS...

SMLib™

TSNLib™

GSNLib™

NLib™

VSLib™

SDLib™

PolyMLib™

Data Translators

NEWSLETTERS:

Solid Modeling Solutions subscribes to the philosophy of source code distribution for application developers. In other words, we provide source code, not just object code. Besides creating a more transparent relationship between SMS and its customers, source code distribution resolves many software development challanges. For example, the ability to step into source code makes software much easier to use and debug. Application developers are therefore empowered to make better use of SMLib and are more able to debug their application.

Source code distribution also allows customers to build SMlib on any platform. Customers are not restricted by the platforms available to SMS. Furthermore, customers can build their applications using custom compiler settings (32 bit/64 bit, Unicode/MCBS, etc) without having to request a new release. Furthermore, turn around time for code improvements is minimized. Customers do not have to wait for the next scheduled release to receive bug fixes or new functions. Source code distribution enables SMS to hand over improvements immediately.

Our reputation is based on the value and quality of the source code, but it also is solidly founded in the support of our products. We have a strong commitment to the evolution of the technology, and we are extremely focused on communication with our community of users. We believe source code distribution is necessary to reach all of these goals.

Since our users are solving difficult modeling problems, we try to free them from the burdens of reinventing common, NURBS geometry tools. Rather than freely giving out the source, we ask our customers to commit to a financial relationship for support and enhancements. There is no startup payment, and users can cancel their participation at any time. After two years, our customers are free to retain the source code without further financial obligation. Most of our customers, however, have continued to subscribe since they have seen the clear benefits of sustaining a mutually beneficial relationship with the SMLib team. We ask for a financial commitment for two basic reasons. First, we need it to provide the very best support and regular upgrades. Second, we will remain independent of proprietary bias in order to better serve our existing customers. We are not owned or financed by other companies that could compromise our commitment to SMLib. The fees amount to less than a quarter of the cost of a fully-qualified expert on your staff. In other words, continuing a support relationship with SMS is a lot like having another employee on your team for one quarter the expense. The commitment we ask of our users provides us the financial stability to continue to fix bugs, enhance the technology, and release new versions of the software with a frequency that fits our customer's needs.

Since our customers are developing serious applications and have made a substantial commitment to SMLib, every customer receives extraordinary, dedicated support. SMS does not have "lighthouse" accounts where some customers are more important than others. Every customer receives the attention they deserve. Application developers want to develop industrial strength applications. They need and expect high levels of support to do their job effectively and efficiently. The SMLib business model allows us to look at bugs together and often fix them within a week or less.

SMS prides itself on both its technical knowledge as well as responsiveness to our customers. At the core of the SMS development team are the original creators and leading experts of NURBS technology. Members of the SMS team are former application developers. This experience is valuable in helping SMS support application developers.We also believe that application development teams are extensions to the SMLib team while we are extensions to the application development team. That sense of team work has led to a first-rate product with real industrial-strength quality, first-rate support, and the most cost-effective solution for our customers.

Our customers have considered the "Total Cost" of a geometry solution, a function of license fees as well as costs associated with productivity. Quality code and responsive support reduce costs associated with development time, software maintenance, ease of use, reliability and relative performance of the software, and turn around time for bug fixes. In the final analysis, those are the key ingredients that differentiate us from our competition.

• "SMLib looks to be very interesting. I'm especially attracted by the fact that it is distributed in source code form. I hate opaque black boxes! Also the licensing terms seem to fit our needs."
• "Gotta love source code, and the VC++ debugger! This problem only slowed me down for 5 minutes, whereas if this was an object library it would have been a week in the very best circumstances."
• With respect to SMLib selection as one of the "Top 10 Software for 1998" by IEEE Computer & Graphics Applications, one of our customers said: "Congratulations! It's certainly one of my personal top 10."
• "In my opinion, the quality of the code is excellent - world class..."
• "...the support is nothing less than phenomenal. "
• From a major software developer regarding geometry kernel independence: "The destiny of software developers that stick with ACIS or Parasolid will be inextricably linked to Dassault or Unigraphics. Any competitor posing risk to either company could put itself in jeopardy of delays in receiving updates, bug fixes, and contract renewals."