--- title: "Best SPC Software - 2026 Reviews & Pricing" description: "Find the best Statistical Process Control Software for your organization. Compare top Statistical Process Control Software systems with customer reviews, pricing, and free demos." source_url: "https://www.softwareadvice.com/manufacturing/spc-comparison/" page_type: "subcategory" language: "en" --- [Home](https://www.softwareadvice.com/) / SPC Software Software Advice offers objective insights based on verified user reviews and independent product and market research. When our advisors match you to a software provider, we may earn a referral fee. # Best SPC Software of 2026 Updated October 26, 2026 ## SPC FAQs Software Advice advisors had 20 conversations with buyers about SPC software between January 2025 and June 2026. These are the questions that came up most. - How do I choose the right SPC software for my business? Choosing the right statistical process control (SPC) software means focusing on features that reduce manual work and fit with existing systems, based on what buyers our advisors talk to consistently raise. Buyers frequently mention prioritizing charting, automated data collection, and real-time monitoring, while also checking whether the system integrates easily with other quality or production tools. Many teams weigh the impact of upfront setup costs and ongoing user fees, making price transparency and fit with budget a common factor. A challenge often discussed is the risk of extra steps or errors when software relies on spreadsheets or lacks integration, so buyers usually favor options that minimize these issues. - What is the best SPC software for a small to mid-size manufacturer? For small to mid-size manufacturers, when speaking with our advisors, buyers often look for statistical process control (SPC) software that can move them away from manual tracking or spreadsheet-based methods. Buyers frequently mention that a key need is software that automates data collection and analysis, since manual processes are time-consuming and can lead to errors. Answer based on 6 advisor calls - What should businesses watch out for when choosing SPC software? Teams exploring statistical process control (SPC) tools in advisor calls often flag manual data entry and heavy use of spreadsheets as a key concern to watch out for before making a choice. Limited integration with other production or quality systems is another consideration, since this can lead to extra steps and disconnected data flows. Most buyers looking at SPC tools are in the manufacturing industry and come from small businesses, so it is common for teams to weigh whether the tool fits limited resources and existing workflows. Deployment preferences are often not specified in these conversations, so buyers tend to focus more on functionality and integration than on cloud or on-premise setup. Answer based on 14 advisor calls - What are common complaints about SPC software? Based on advisor calls, buyers frequently mention that many statistical process control (SPC) systems still require manual work or heavy use of spreadsheets. Limited integration with other tools is another common challenge, often leading to extra steps when connecting SPC data with quality or production systems. Some buyers also express overall dissatisfaction with their current SPC software, often tied to these same frustrations. Answer based on 12 advisor calls - What is the difference between SPC software and general ERP software? Statistical process control (SPC) software is built specifically to track, analyze, and visualize manufacturing data for quality control, while general enterprise resource planning (ERP) software focuses on managing broad business operations like inventory, finance, and supply chain. Buyers frequently tell our advisors that they look to SPC software for detailed charting, automated data collection, and real-time monitoring of production processes, features that ERP systems usually lack or only cover at a high level. Many buyers mention that relying on spreadsheets or manual methods for SPC tasks in ERP systems leads to errors and wasted time, and a common sticking point is the difficulty of integrating SPC data with other tools when using general ERP software. Answer based on 14 advisor calls - How much does SPC software cost? SPC software is most often priced per user per month, and advisor-call conversations show that teams are usually quoted between $100 and $200 per user. The median monthly price lands at $100 per user. Nearly all buyers also hear about a one-time setup fee, which commonly sits at $7,000 based on multiple advisor-call discussions. Buyers frequently mention the upfront setup cost as a key consideration when comparing options. Answer based on 14 advisor calls - What features should SPC software include? According to our advisors, buyers searching for SPC software often look for charting features to manage patient documentation, including details on clinical interactions, diagnoses, procedures, and medications. This function is a priority for users who need a central place to record and review patient care information. Answer based on 6 advisor calls - What is SPC software and what does it do? Statistical process control (SPC) software is designed for manufacturing teams to monitor, analyze, and improve process performance using statistical data. A common theme in these conversations is that SPC software tracks process measurements in real time and alerts users if results fall outside of set limits, helping teams catch and address issues before they impact product quality. Buyers frequently mention using these tools to generate charts and reports, which makes it easier to spot trends, document process changes, and support compliance efforts. SPC software is often discussed alongside quality management and manufacturing execution systems, but focuses specifically on process data and control. Answer based on 6 advisor calls On this page 1. Popular Comparisons 2. Buyers Guide 3. Frequently Asked Questions 4. Related Software Filter products 106 results ### Compare Products Showing 1 - 25 of 106 products #### Company Size - Self-Employed - 2-10 - 11-50 - 51-200 - 201-500 - 501-1000 - 1000+ #### Pricing Options - $$$$$ - $$$$$ - $$$$$ - $$$$$ - $$$$$ ### Compare Products Sort by **Recommendations**: Sorts listings by the number of recommendations our advisors have made over the past 30 days. Our advisors assess buyers’ needs for free and only recommend products that meet buyers’ needs. Vendors pay Software Advice for these referrals. **Reviews**: Sorts listings by the number of user reviews we have published, greatest to least. **Average Rating**: Sorts listings by overall star rating based on user reviews, highest to lowest. **Alphabetically (A-Z)**: Sorts listings by product name from A to Z. ### [NetSuite](/accounting/netsuite-financials-accounting-software-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.2/5 - Reviews: 2,082 - Best for: Enterprise businesses - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview NetSuite is an AI-powered cloud-based business management suite that incorporates ERP, financial management, CRM and eCommerce functionalities into a unified platform, helping [Read more](/accounting/netsuite-financials-accounting-software-profile/) ##### What users love - Deep system tailoring options - Comprehensive and scalable functionality - Centralized financial operations platform ##### To take in mind - Steep learning curve and complexity - Complex and rigid reporting tools - Slow and inconsistent support experience #### Features ##### Best rated features - Aging Tracking: 5/5 - "What If" Scenarios: 5/5 - Vendor Master Data Management: 5/5 - For B2B: 5/5 [See all features](/accounting/netsuite-financials-accounting-software-profile/#key-features) --- ### [Redzone](/manufacturing/redzone-productivity-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.9/5 - Reviews: 286 - Best for: Small businesses - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview Redzone: The Connected Workforce Platform for Manufacturing Execution Redzone is the leading connected workforce platform built for manufacturing. With more than 2,000 plants [Read more](/manufacturing/redzone-productivity-profile/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Defect Tracking: 5/5 - Surveys & Feedback: 5/5 - Customizable Templates: 5/5 - Alerts/Escalation: 5/5 [See all features](/manufacturing/redzone-productivity-profile/#key-features) --- ### [SafetyChain](/bi/safetychain-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.6/5 - Reviews: 93 - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview SafetyChain's digital plant management platform gives process manufacturers the flexibility to rapidly address urgent challenges while offering scalability to expand and drive [Read more](/bi/safetychain-profile/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Approval Process Control: 5/5 - Customizable Reports: 5/5 - Real-Time Data: 5/5 - Data Entry: 5/5 ##### Worst rated features - Archiving & Retention: 1/5 - Real-Time Notifications: 2/5 - Loss Tracking: 2/5 [See all features](/bi/safetychain-profile/#key-features) --- ### [Quickbase](/crm/quick-base-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.4/5 - Reviews: 334 - Starting price: $35.00/month - Best for: Small businesses - Free trial: Available - Free demo: Available #### Overview Quickbase is a no-code/low-code operations platform that helps small businesses, mid-market companies, and enterprise organizations across industries such as construction, [Read more](/crm/quick-base-profile/) ##### What users love - Responsive and knowledgeable support - Highly flexible customization options - Automates complex business workflows ##### To take in mind - Expensive for growing teams #### Features ##### Best rated features - Territory Management: 5/5 - Status Tracking: 5/5 - Compliance Tracking: 5/5 - Accounting: 5/5 [See all features](/crm/quick-base-profile/#key-features) #### Pricing ##### Free trial - Price: Custom - Pricing available upon request ##### Team - Price: $35.00/month - Minimum of 20 users ##### Business - Price: $55.00/month - Minimum of 40 users [See full pricing details](/crm/quick-base-profile/#pricing-and-plans) --- ### [Fusion Operations](/product/393147-Fusion-Operations/) - Overall rating: 4.7/5 - Reviews: 86 - Starting price: $2,000.00/year - Free trial: Available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview Fusion Operations is a manufacturing execution system that provides real-time data for production management. It helps manufacturers and fabricators, from small to large-scale, [Read more](/product/393147-Fusion-Operations/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Inventory Tracking: 5/5 - Performance Metrics: 5/5 - Data Catalog: 5/5 - Production Management: 5/5 ##### Worst rated features - Customizable Fields: 3/5 - Real-Time Notifications: 3/5 - Third-Party Integrations: 4/5 - Reporting/Analytics: 4/5 [See all features](/product/393147-Fusion-Operations/#key-features) #### Pricing ##### Basic - Price: $2,000.00/year [See full pricing details](/product/393147-Fusion-Operations/#pricing-and-plans) --- ### [Fulcrum](/product/328655-Fulcrum-Pro/) - Overall rating: 4.9/5 - Reviews: 15 - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview Fulcrum is a modern, cloud-native Manufacturing Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform that replaces outdated ERP, MRP, and MES systems. Built specifically for small and mid-sized [Read more](/product/328655-Fulcrum-Pro/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Job Tracking: 5/5 - Estimating: 5/5 - Supplier Management: 5/5 - Real-Time Monitoring: 5/5 ##### Worst rated features - Customizable Reports: 3/5 - Forecasting: 3.8/5 [See all features](/product/328655-Fulcrum-Pro/#key-features) --- ### [RF-SMART WMS](/inventory-management/rf-smart-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.7/5 - Reviews: 48 - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview RF-SMART is the leading third-party warehouse management system (WMS) for NetSuite, serving 2,800+ customers across 40+ countries. RF-SMART has been recognized as the #1 [Read more](/inventory-management/rf-smart-profile/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Purchase Order Management: 5/5 - Customization: 5/5 - Reporting & Statistics: 5/5 - Label Templates: 5/5 [See all features](/inventory-management/rf-smart-profile/#key-features) --- ### [QI Macros SPC Software Excel](/product/465657-QI-Macros-SPC-Software-Excel/) - Overall rating: 4.8/5 - Reviews: 22 - Starting price: $379.00one time - Free trial: Available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview QI Macros SPC Software Excel is an electronics manufacturing software designed to help businesses in the manufacturing, hospitality, healthcare, education, banking, insurance, [Read more](/product/465657-QI-Macros-SPC-Software-Excel/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Data Management: 4.5/5 [See all features](/product/465657-QI-Macros-SPC-Software-Excel/#key-features) #### Pricing ##### Basic - Price: $379.00one time [See full pricing details](/product/465657-QI-Macros-SPC-Software-Excel/#pricing-and-plans) --- ### [Spreadsheet Server](/reporting-tools/spreadsheet-server-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.6/5 - Reviews: 93 - Free trial: Available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview Spreadsheet Server eliminates the painful choice between manual Excel exports and complex BI tools. Connect 140+ ERPs directly to Excel for real-time reporting using skills you [Read more](/reporting-tools/spreadsheet-server-profile/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Accounting: 5/5 - Expense Tracking: 5/5 - Billing & Invoicing: 5/5 - Accounts Payable: 5/5 [See all features](/reporting-tools/spreadsheet-server-profile/#key-features) #### Pricing ##### Basic - Price: Custom - Pricing available upon request [See full pricing details](/reporting-tools/spreadsheet-server-profile/#pricing-and-plans) --- ### [GainSeeker Suite](/manufacturing/gainseeker-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.6/5 - Reviews: 45 - Starting price: $2,295.00one time - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview Are you struggling to bridge the gap between complex shop-floor data and profitable business decisions? GainSeeker is the premier statistical process control (SPC) solution [Read more](/manufacturing/gainseeker-profile/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Data Linking: 5/5 - Performance Metrics: 5/5 - Reporting & Statistics: 5/5 - Quality Control: 5/5 [See all features](/manufacturing/gainseeker-profile/#key-features) --- ### [PerformOEE Smart Factory Software](/manufacturing/performoee-smart-factory-software-profile/) - Overall rating: 5/5 - Reviews: 6 - Starting price: $22,000.00one time - Free trial: Available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview PerformOEE Smart Factory Software is an overall equipment efficiency (OEE) solution for manufacturing businesses that offers tools for managing capacity planning, data capture, [Read more](/manufacturing/performoee-smart-factory-software-profile/) #### Pricing ##### Basic - Price: $22,000.00one time [See full pricing details](/manufacturing/performoee-smart-factory-software-profile/#pricing-and-plans) --- ### [High QA](/product/502087-High-QA-Inspection-Manager/) - Overall rating: 4.8/5 - Reviews: 9 - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview High QA is a design-driven Manufacturing Quality platform that connects quality planning, inspection, and reporting to the original 2D drawing or 3D model. By keeping design intent [Read more](/product/502087-High-QA-Inspection-Manager/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Access Controls/Permissions: 5/5 - Calibration Scheduling: 5/5 - Calibration Management: 5/5 - Alerts/Notifications: 5/5 ##### Worst rated features - Customizable Forms: 4/5 [See all features](/product/502087-High-QA-Inspection-Manager/#key-features) --- ### [QDM SPC System](/product/475795-QDM-SPC-System/) - Overall rating: 4.7/5 - Reviews: 13 - Starting price: $158.00/month - Free trial: Available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview Your manufacturing quality information is instantly accessible via the QDM SPC Platform from any location, at any time. Use strong SPC tools and real-time monitoring to automate [Read more](/product/475795-QDM-SPC-System/) #### Pricing ##### Basic - Price: $158.00/month [See full pricing details](/product/475795-QDM-SPC-System/#pricing-and-plans) --- ### [SQCpack](/manufacturing/sqcpack-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.6/5 - Reviews: 37 - Starting price: $1,590.00one time - Free trial: Available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview SQCpack by PQ Systems is a statistical process control (SPC) system that is suitable for most industries and any manufacturing mode. SQCpack is available in on-premise or [Read more](/manufacturing/sqcpack-profile/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Secure Data Storage: 5/5 - Quality Control: 5/5 - Defect Tracking: 4/5 - Compliance Management: 4/5 [See all features](/manufacturing/sqcpack-profile/#key-features) #### Pricing ##### Basic - Price: $1,590.00one time [See full pricing details](/manufacturing/sqcpack-profile/#pricing-and-plans) --- ### [WinSPC](/manufacturing/winspc-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.6/5 - Reviews: 16 - Starting price: $1,600.00one time - Free trial: Available - Free demo: Available #### Overview WinSPC is a statistical process control solution aimed at helping businesses of varying sizes manage and improve quality across manufacturing operations while adhering to industry [Read more](/manufacturing/winspc-profile/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Data Linking: 5/5 - Data Import/Export: 5/5 - Activity Dashboard: 5/5 [See all features](/manufacturing/winspc-profile/#key-features) #### Pricing ##### Basic - Price: $1,600.00one time [See full pricing details](/manufacturing/winspc-profile/#pricing-and-plans) --- ### [BlackBelt Enterprise](/manufacturing/blackbelt-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.7/5 - Reviews: 10 - Free trial: Available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview BlackBelt Enterprise is a manufacturing suite that caters to businesses of all sizes across industries such as aerospace and defense, medical devices, electronics manufacturing and [Read more](/manufacturing/blackbelt-profile/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Maintenance Management: 5/5 - Change Management: 5/5 - Compliance Management: 5/5 - Data Entry: 5/5 [See all features](/manufacturing/blackbelt-profile/#key-features) --- ### [StartProto](/manufacturing/startproto-profile/) - Overall rating: 5/5 - Reviews: 2 - Free trial: Available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview StartProto revolutionizes manufacturing operations by offering a cutting-edge cloud-based solution. Its primary objective is to help businesses elevate their quoting, routing, and [Read more](/manufacturing/startproto-profile/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Production Scheduling: 5/5 - Inventory Management: 5/5 - Bills of Material: 5/5 - Order Management: 4.5/5 [See all features](/manufacturing/startproto-profile/#key-features) #### Pricing ##### Custom - Price: Custom - Pricing available upon request [See full pricing details](/manufacturing/startproto-profile/#pricing-and-plans) --- ### [ProFicient](/manufacturing/proficient-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.7/5 - Reviews: 3 - Starting price: $2,300.00 - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview InfinityQS® ProFicient modernizes SPC-based quality management for total manufacturing optimization—from the plant floor to the boardroom. Modernize real-time Statistical Process [Read more](/manufacturing/proficient-profile/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Traceability: 5/5 - Real-Time Monitoring: 5/5 - Customizable Reports: 5/5 - Defect Tracking: 5/5 [See all features](/manufacturing/proficient-profile/#key-features) --- ### [WATS](/manufacturing/wats-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.5/5 - Reviews: 11 - Starting price: €267.00/year - Free trial: Available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview WATS is a test data management solution that allows businesses in the electronics industry to collect and analyze test data for determining potential issues across assets, [Read more](/manufacturing/wats-profile/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Data Analysis Tools: 5/5 - Data Integration: 5/5 - Data Security: 5/5 - Dashboard Creation: 5/5 ##### Worst rated features - Access Controls/Permissions: 3/5 - Data Migration: 3/5 - Customer Database: 4/5 - Data Capture and Transfer: 4/5 [See all features](/manufacturing/wats-profile/#key-features) #### Pricing ##### Basic - Price: €267.00/year [See full pricing details](/manufacturing/wats-profile/#pricing-and-plans) --- ### [FSWorks](/data-quality/fsworks-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.5/5 - Reviews: 8 - Free trial: Available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview FSWorks is a workstation-level data collection software that provides data entry and a library of analytic tools. It helps users with hierarchal data collection [Read more](/data-quality/fsworks-profile/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Real-Time Data: 5/5 - Data Linking: 5/5 - Data Import/Export: 5/5 - Data Entry: 5/5 ##### Worst rated features - Compliance Management: 3/5 - Production Management: 3/5 - Real-Time Monitoring: 3/5 - Defect Tracking: 4/5 [See all features](/data-quality/fsworks-profile/#key-features) #### Pricing ##### Basic - Price: Custom - Pricing available upon request [See full pricing details](/data-quality/fsworks-profile/#pricing-and-plans) --- ### [SPC-PC IV Explorer](/cmms/spc-pc-iv-explorer-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.5/5 - Reviews: 8 - Starting price: $995.00 - Free trial: Available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview SPC-PC IV Explorer is a web-based and on-premise statistical process control (SPC) solution designed to help manufacturing businesses monitor and analyze production processes. Key [Read more](/cmms/spc-pc-iv-explorer-profile/) #### Pricing ##### Basic - Price: $995.00 [See full pricing details](/cmms/spc-pc-iv-explorer-profile/#pricing-and-plans) --- ### [Enact](/manufacturing/enact-profile/) - Overall rating: 4/5 - Reviews: 1 - Starting price: $65.00/month - Free trial: Available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview Enact by InfinityQS is cloud-based software designed to help manufacturing businesses of all sizes manage data and quality processes across onsite and offsite projects on a unified [Read more](/manufacturing/enact-profile/) #### Pricing ##### Basic - Price: $65.00/month [See full pricing details](/manufacturing/enact-profile/#pricing-and-plans) --- ### [Infor MES](/manufacturing/shopfloor-online-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.3/5 - Reviews: 2 - Starting price: $50,000.00/month - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview Infor MES, previously known as Shopfloor-Online, is a versatile manufacturing execution system available on-premise and in the cloud. Tailored for industries like aerospace, [Read more](/manufacturing/shopfloor-online-profile/) --- ### [Katana Cloud Inventory](/manufacturing/katana-mrp-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.6/5 - Reviews: 171 - Starting price: $299.00/month - Best for: Customer support - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview Designed for businesses in electronics, furnishing, food & beverage, cosmetics and other industries, Katana is a cloud-based manufacturing solution that helps manage sales, [Read more](/manufacturing/katana-mrp-profile/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Material Requirements Planning: 5/5 - Supplier Management: 5/5 - Integrated Business Operations: 5/5 - SKU/UPC Codes: 5/5 ##### Worst rated features - Monitoring: 1/5 [See all features](/manufacturing/katana-mrp-profile/#key-features) --- ### [Accevo MES](/manufacturing/smart-factory-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.3/5 - Reviews: 10 - Starting price: €20,000.00one time - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview A MES system is sophisticated software that measures and improves the quality, availability, and productivity of manufacturing lines. The class of the implemented solution [Read more](/manufacturing/smart-factory-profile/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Document Management: 4/5 - Traceability: 4/5 - Order Management: 3.5/5 - Bills of Material: 3.5/5 ##### Worst rated features - Forecasting: 2.5/5 - Production Scheduling: 3/5 - Inventory Management: 3/5 - Quality Management: 3.3/5 [See all features](/manufacturing/smart-factory-profile/#key-features) --- 1 [2](https://www.softwareadvice.com/manufacturing/spc-comparison/?__ai_markdown=true&page=2)[3](https://www.softwareadvice.com/manufacturing/spc-comparison/?__ai_markdown=true&page=3)[4](https://www.softwareadvice.com/manufacturing/spc-comparison/?__ai_markdown=true&page=4)[5](https://www.softwareadvice.com/manufacturing/spc-comparison/?__ai_markdown=true&page=5) ## Popular Comparisons [ NetSuite vs DELMIAWorks ](https://www.softwareadvice.com/manufacturing/iqms-enterpriseiq-profile/vs/netsuite-financials-accounting-software/)[ Redzone vs Fusion Operations ](https://www.softwareadvice.com/compare/198931-redzone-productivity/vs/393147-Fusion-Operations/)[ GainSeeker Suite vs SQCpack ](https://www.softwareadvice.com/manufacturing/gainseeker-profile/vs/sqcpack/)[ RF-SMART WMS vs KanbanBOX ](https://www.softwareadvice.com/inventory-management/kanbanbox-profile/vs/rf-smart/) In order to deliver effective and repeatable quality control, many companies choose to use statistical process control (SPC) software, which tracks the data that comes off manufacturing lines and alerts machine operators and plant supervisors to potential problems. This buyer’s guide provides a brief overview of statistical process control and SPC software to help buyers better understand the market. Here’s what we’ll cover: - [What Is Statistical Process Control Software?](#WhatIsStatisticalProcessControlSoftware) - [What Type of Buyer Are You?](#WhatTypeofBuyerAreYou) - [Benefits and Potential Issues](#BenefitsandPotentialIssues) - [Market Trends to Understand](#MarketTrendstoUnderstand) ## What Is Statistical Process Control Software? In manufacturing, statistical process control (often associated with [overall equipment effectiveness](https://www.softwareadvice.com/manufacturing/oee-comparison/), or OEE) describes the process of collecting quality control data for statistical analysis. The collection of this data allows manufacturers to identify any quality concerns that need to be addressed before they escalate into expensive problems. Statistical process control can be applied to individual components or end-products to ensure they perform within specified parameters. SPC can also be applied to manufacturing tools and machines themselves to optimize machine output. This helps reduce scrap rates and the number of components that need to be checked and replaced during the maintenance cycle, lowering the chance of machine failure and unscheduled downtime. SPC software facilitates statistical process control by collecting data in real-time and alerting the manufacturer to any results that fall outside the accepted range. This, in turn, helps reduce process variation, improves manufacturing efficiency and lowers overall production costs. ([https://software-advice.imgix.net/managed/other\_pages/Zontec](https://software-advice.imgix.net/managed/other_pages/Zontec) SPC Software.jpg) _Screenshot of Synergy Software by Zontec_ SPC software generally has two main functions: **Real-time monitoring and alerts.** SPC software is used primarily to identify quality concerns the moment they occur so they can be resolved before they become major problems. To that end, it constantly monitors production data to alert the quality team the instant an anomaly is discovered. **Long-term data collection and analysis.** To benefit companies in the long term, SPC systems aggregate historical data, allowing for analysis and optimization of processes and quality improvement. ## What Type of Buyer Are You? As a manufacturer looking for a statistical process control solution, you may fall within one of the following groups: **Full-suite buyers.** If you’re looking to integrate SPC functionality with broader manufacturing functionality, such as inventory management, production planning or manufacturing accounting, you may want to evaluate an integrated manufacturing system. This type of system features the above-mentioned applications, which can be applied throughout the manufacturing cycle. **Specialty manufacturers.** Some industries, such as aviation, food and beverage and pharmaceuticals, have very specific regulatory requirements they must comply with. Some SPC systems are created to address these unique requirements, so you may want to consider investing in a system that meets your industry-specific needs. **Single application buyers.** Some manufacturers have straightforward SPC requirements and are simply looking for basic quality control functionality to manage production variations. For this type of buyer, it’s best to evaluate a stand-alone system that is easier to deploy. ## Benefits and Potential Issues Common benefits of implementing SPC software include the following: **Savings through reduced process variation and waste.** Real-time SPC software allows your team to detect small errors before they lead to larger defects so you don’t end up producing—or, worse, shipping—defective products. This results in less waste and rework and greater cost savings. **A systematic approach to quality improvement.** Since SPC software aggregates and reports on historical data, it helps plant supervisors and other manufacturing personnel develop a more data-driven approach to managing product and process quality. **Improved workflows.** SPC software gives engineers, operators, quality controllers and executives access to the same data. This helps team members work together to identify process inefficiencies and improve workflows. For any SPC software purchase, it’s critical that your software be compatible with the tools and technology you already use on your manufacturing lines. It’s also important to recognize that any software is only as effective as the processes behind it. Companies that realize the greatest benefits from implementing SPC software are those that recognize the system is just one component of an overall SPC plan, which requires buy-in from all employees and a commitment to ongoing process improvement. ## Market Trends to Understand The below mentioned trends can help you identify the current trends in the statistical process control software market. **Integration with SCADA systems:** Statistical process control software solutions are on the rise and most vendors are integrating their products more completely with supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems. Currently vendors are targeting their solutions to a wider audience, such as sales and customer support people, rather than only to quality engineers. In addition, vendors are now opening up programs for easier data import and export. **Increase in customizable tools:** Since the audience for statistical process control systems is growing fast, vendors are offering various customization tools for their solutions. Features, such as control limits, frequency of data points and types of charts, are now available in completely configurable forms. Different types of alarms are also available in a single solution. Currently, most of the standalone systems are offering extensive options for personalization and flexibility. **Ease of availability:** Similar to other software markets, customers want their statistical process control system to be available at any location and in any device across the globe with all the functionalities. This will help them monitor multiple processes across locations and integrate a wide range of data so as to get a holistic picture of their quality improvement environment. **Demand for data representation:** Along with data being available on their fingertips, customers are looking for features that help them visually represent the data in meetings. Customers want to show data on a real-time basis to both executives in a meeting room and to workers on the plant floor. Such data visualization will help improve the quality and add value to meetings in real time. **Easy-to-use interface with external programs:** Statistical process control software designers are moving toward developing an easy-to-use interface that can connect smoothly with third-party programs. The solutions that are currently being developed can interact with databases that support open database connectivity (ODBC). This functionality makes it easier for organizations to import and export data. Hence, as a buyer you need to be aware of the latest trends happening in the statistical process control software market so that you can align your business needs with the current trends. ### Related SPC Software - [Manufacturing Execution Software](https://www.softwareadvice.com/manufacturing/execution-systems-comparison/) - [Quality Management Software](https://www.softwareadvice.com/manufacturing/quality-management-software-comparison/)