> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.dietrichs.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.dietrichs.com/tutorials/tutorials-en/creating-from-dietrichs/delivery-journey/design-to-manufacture/1.-dietrichs-to-manufacturing-a-practical-integration-guide.md).

# 1. Dietrich's to Manufacturing: A Practical Integration Guide

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### How to Use This Guide

This guide combines everything you need to know about integrating Dietrich's with your manufacturing workflow in one place.

**If you outsource fabrication** → Focus on Parts 1, 2, and 4\
**If you manufacture in-house** → Read Parts 1, 3, and 4\
**Not sure which you are?** → Start with Part 1, Section 1

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## PART 1: THE FOUNDATION

### 1. Two Business Models, Two Paths

The integration approach that works for your company depends entirely on your business model. There are two fundamentally different models in timber construction:

#### The Design-Outsource Model

**What it is:**

* You design buildings in Dietrich's
* External suppliers fabricate the components
* You coordinate multiple manufacturers
* Your output is documentation packages

**Who uses this:**

* Architecture firms
* Engineering consultancies
* General contractors
* Design-build firms that outsource fabrication

**Key characteristic:** You don't own the CNC machines or control the manufacturing process.

**Your focus:** Clean documentation handoff to suppliers.

**Example:** An architecture firm designs a timber structure in Dietrich's, then sends machine files and 2D drawings to three different suppliers: Supplier A makes the glulam beams, Supplier B machines the wall components, and Supplier C produces the roof trusses.

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#### The Vertically Integrated Model

**What it is:**

* You design AND fabricate in-house
* You own CNC equipment
* You control the entire manufacturing process
* Components are made in your facility

**Who uses this:**

* Panel manufacturers
* Truss plants
* Mass timber fabricators
* Vertically integrated builders

**Key characteristic:** You own the machines and employ the operators.

**Your focus:** Internal production control and efficiency.

**Example:** A panel manufacturer designs wall panels in Dietrich's, machines components on their own Hundegger CNC, assembles panels in their facility, and delivers finished panels to the construction site.

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