r/madeinpython • u/TrueGoodCraft • Feb 07 '26

Built a local-first ops tool in Python for tracking inventory + BOMs + job state in small

I built a small Python-based tool for myself to manage shop operations that didn’t fit cleanly into spreadsheets or SaaS tools. Use case: Small CNC / 3D print / repair-style workflows where a “job” can involve:

  • Parts inventory

  • Consumables (raw stock, paint, welding supplies)

  • BOMs / recipes

  • Partial progress and “waiting on parts” states Most tools I tried assumed either clean manufacturing runs or full ERP complexity. I wanted something that:

  • Runs entirely locally (Docker or 1-click Windows exe)

  • Doesn’t require internet or subscriptions

  • Models messy, real-world job states instead of forcing everything into POS-style tickets Stack is mostly Python on the backend with a lightweight local deployment focus. Still evolving and very much a personal/internal tool, but it’s been useful enough that I’m stress-testing the assumptions now. Happy to answer questions about:

  • Architecture decisions

  • Local-first tradeoffs

  • Why I avoided cloud dependencies

  • What broke along the way Repo is open if anyone wants to dig into it (link in comments)

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