Autodesk Fusion 360 is a three-dimensional product design tool for hobbyists and professionals. The cloud-based platform combines software for computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) to provide an integrated experience from design through manufacturing.
Considering that start-ups are usually cash-strapped and recruiting fresh talent, Autodesk Fusion 360 can be an effective option for ventures that involve creating and designing physical objects. The Autodesk Fusion 360 tool has many uses and is ideal for startups. You may be able to get the platform for free and its easy-to-use functionality makes it easy to hire Autodesk Fusion 360 freelancers.
What Does Autodesk Fusion 360 Do?
Autodesk Fusion 360 is a software platform that offers multiple functionalities that can take your project from design to manufacturing without ever having to open another software application. The platform includes CAD, CAM, computer-aided engineering (CAE), and printed circuit board (PCB) software that facilitates the entire design process from start to finish.
Autodesk Fusion 360 is used for:
- Designing objects in two-dimensional and three-dimensional images
- Manufacturing objects by generating toolpaths using CAM software
- Rendering objects to see a realistic portrayal of the item, with specifications, such as materials (wood, glass, steel)
- Animating objects for simple visualizations
- Simulating to see how your object would perform in real life
Why Is Autodesk Fusion 360 Great for Startups?
There are many reasons Autodesk Fusion 360 is great for startup companies, including:
- You Can Get It for Free
If you’re a bootstrapped, angel-funded, or venture startup with fewer than three years under your belt, you may qualify to receive Autodesk Fusion 360 for free. In return, you must be willing to share your story on a valid website or digital platform. Qualifying startups must design or manufacture original physical products.
As a startup, every penny counts. Being able to use Fusion 360 for free could be immensely helpful in getting your company off the ground–even if you’re unable to get Fusion 360 for free, the subscription is fairly affordable.
- It’s an All-In-One Solution
Instead of buying separate software packages for design, manufacturing, animation, and simulation, Fusion 360 lets you do it all in one place. This saves you money that would otherwise be spent on different platforms, as well as the time and effort that would be spent on switching between software applications and transferring data or learning how to use multiple platforms.
- It Is Relatively Easy to Use
Because Fusion 360 is designed for use by both professionals and hobbyists, it is relatively easy to use when compared to other design software. Startups often hire freelancers, fresh graduates, and people with less experience. Fusion 360 is easier to learn and operate for younger and less experienced recruits, and you’ll easily find a wide range of Fusion 360 experts on freelancing platforms.
- Support Is Readily Available
Open Autodesk forums provide important support needed to resolve any issues. These forums offer helpful support on a variety of problems for free, letting you solve issues quickly and effectively.
- It Lets You Work From Home
Ever since the pandemic, more and more companies are adopting flexible working policies. Working from home is helpful for startups as it can help save costs, such as rent and electricity bills for office space.
Autodesk Fusion 360 is cloud-based software, meaning that it can be accessed on multiple devices such as your work computer, phone, and personal laptop. The software can also be operated in offline mode when you are having issues with the Internet.
Through the cloud platform, employees can not only work from home but can also collaborate through the software. Fusion 360 can be accessed by multiple people simultaneously, allowing them to view, manage data, and make edits in real-time.
How Can Startups Acquire Fusion 360 for Free?
To get a free version of Autodesk Fusion 360 for Startups, companies need to meet the following requirements:
- Be in existence for fewer than three years
- Preferably be a bootstrapped, angel-backed, or venture startup
- Have fewer than ten employees
- Have gross annual revenue of less than $100,000
- Have a valid website or social media presence
- Manufacture or design original physical products
- Be willing to share its story with the Fusion 360 community
If a startup meets these requirements, it can apply for the free version of Autodesk Fusion 360 through the Autodesk website. Once granted, the license must be renewed every year. The license can be renewed as long as the company continues to meet the requirements–for instance, if after a year of using the free version of Fusion 360, the company enters its fourth year of operation, the license will not be eligible for renewal.
If you’re still unsure about Fusion 360, there are other options to consider. Compare Autodesk Fusion 360 versus Inventor to see which is a better solution for your company; if you still need a bit of help, expert freelancers on Guru are ready to jump in.
