STSX Steel Tracking FAQ
Q: Does STSX integrate with Tekla PowerFab?
A: Yes. STSX has integrated with Tekla PowerFab (formerly FabSuite) since 2008. In practical terms, your data originates in PowerFab, and STSX extends that data to the shop floor in real time using barcode/QR code scanning. Instead of relying on manual updates or delayed status changes, your team scans material and parts as they move through the shop—keeping PowerFab accurate without additional office work. Many shops are relying on delayed or manual updates in PowerFab, which leads to inaccuracies over time. STSX eliminates that gap.
Q: Can barcoding with STSX help me track material through my shop more efficiently?
A: Yes—and this is where most shops see the biggest impact. STSX creates a real-time, error-resistant tracking system using simple Auto-ID (barcode/QR code) technology. Every scan updates the status and location of material instantly. Instead of walking the shop looking for parts or relying on whiteboards and spreadsheets, you get immediate visibility into where material is, what stage it’s in, and what’s ready for the next step. In many cases, shops are spending unnecessary time searching for material or verifying status manually—this removes that inefficiency.
Q: Can barcoding/QR codes help reduce shipping errors?
A: Absolutely—and this is one of the fastest ROI wins. STSX ensures that no part leaves your shop unless it’s properly scanned and verified. That provides two critical safeguards:
- Fit verification – ensuring the correct parts are going out
- Jobsite accuracy – ensuring material is delivered to the correct job
This reduces costly callbacks, jobsite delays, and rework.
Most shops we talk to have experienced at least one major shipping mistake that cost time, money, and credibility—this system is designed to prevent that.
Q: How hard is the STSX software for our shop team to learn and use?
A: It’s very straightforward. If someone can use a smartphone, they can use STSX. The system is designed specifically for shop-floor simplicity—scan, confirm, and move on. Most shops are concerned about adoption, but in reality, shop teams pick this up quickly because it simplifies their day rather than adding complexity.
Q: How quickly can we get up and running?
A: Most shops are actively scanning and tracking material within 6–8 weeks of placing an order, depending on setup and integration needs. Once training starts, your team will go live with the system on the second day our trainer is on-site, and they will be actively scanning and using the bar code system before our trainer leaves. Implementation is structured and guided, so teams are not left trying to figure it out on their own. Most shops expect this to take much longer than it actually does, but the ramp-up is typically faster than anticipated.
Q: What is the biggest benefit most shops see after implementing STSX?
A: The biggest benefits are:
- Faster data tracking
- Fewer data entry and reporting errors
- Reduced shipping errors
All of which contribute directly to improved efficiency and increased profit margins. Most shops don’t realize how much time and money is being lost through small inefficiencies and errors until those issues are removed.
Q: Do we still need spreadsheets or manual tracking methods?
A: No. STSX replaces manual tracking methods with real-time scan-based updates, eliminating duplicate entry and reducing human error. A common challenge we see is that shops are still relying on some form of manual tracking, which is where breakdowns typically occur.
Q: Is STSX replacing our existing fabrication management system?
A: No. STSX enhances your existing system (such as Tekla PowerFab) by bringing real-time accuracy to shop floor operations. It acts as the execution layer that ensures your system reflects what is actually happening in the shop.
Q: What systems can STSX import from?
A: STSX integrates with industry-standard systems, including Tekla PowerFab, Tekla Structures, SDS/2 (via XML interface), and Structural Material Manager. This allows you to bring existing data directly into STSX without rework or duplicate entry. Typically, most shops are concerned about compatibility with their current systems—STSX is designed to fit into your existing workflow, not replace it.
Q: Can STSX scale as our business grows?
A: Yes. STSX is built to scale with your operation—from smaller fabrication shops to large, multi-location facilities. You can start with core functionality and expand as your needs evolve. Most shops don’t need everything on day one, and STSX allows you to grow into it.
Q: What kind of training is required?
A: Training is simple and role-based, focusing on what each user needs to do day-to-day. Most shop floor users are comfortable within hours, not weeks. Most shops expect a steep learning curve, but adoption is typically fast because the system is intuitive. Once training begins, users are typically up and running within the first couple of days.
Q: What hardware is required to run STSX?
A: STSX works with standard industrial barcode/QR code scanners, mobile devices, tablets, and phones (Android and iOS). We help guide hardware selection to ensure it fits your environment—whether that’s rugged handheld scanners for the shop floor or tablets for supervisors. Most shops already have some of the required hardware, so the investment is often lower than expected.
Q: Does STSX support reporting and visibility?
A: Yes. STSX provides clear, actionable reporting on material status, production progress, and shop activity. This allows management to make faster, more informed decisions without chasing down information. Most shops are spending too much time gathering data instead of using it—this flips that dynamic.
Q: What happens if something is scanned incorrectly?
A: STSX is designed to minimize errors with validation checks and simple workflows. If a mistake does occur, it can be quickly identified and corrected—often immediately. Most shops rely on processes where errors go unnoticed until much later—this system catches them in real time.
Q: Does STSX use QR codes?
A: Yes. STSX supports both barcode and QR code scanning, depending on the hardware used.
Q: Will P2 Programs consider enhancement requests to the STSX software?
A: Yes. We actively welcome enhancement requests and are always looking for ways to make your operations more efficient.