# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussion

• The SKDB project was discussed as a system for representing parts compatibility and interoperability metadata, addressing both geometric compatibility and parametric "rated-for" compatibility through ports on CAD parts.

• Participants proposed modeling standard interfaces (like USB and pipe fittings) into CAD files with parametric information to make it easier for designers to incorporate standardized components.

• A collaborative approach was suggested where users could contribute parametric data through wiki pages formatted into YAML files, with alternatives including a direct web frontend for the YAML format.

• The group shared information about a new Austin fabrication lab inventory, highlighting various tools that could be repurposed for different manufacturing needs.

• Bug tracking systems were discussed as a useful collaboration tool for hardware design due to their persistence and structured approach to describing issues.

• The conversation highlighted the prohibitive cost barriers of professional CAD/CAM software ($7,000-$50,000 per seat) compared to open-source alternatives like LinuxCNC and HeeksCAD.

• There was an underlying theme about democratizing manufacturing technology through open-source solutions to address the accessibility issues created by expensive proprietary software.