The use of modern design software programs has, like nothing else, opened upthe diversity of surfboard design. I think this fact alone has silenced much of the early dissent on the use of shaping machines. The reality is when a customer comes in to order something left of centre, the shaper need not run a mile, and believe me there are shit loads of these guys coming out of the closet these days! The software program is not limited to left of center surfboard designs however, it is also an important tool that perfects high performance short board designs.

Before the introduction of the surfboard software programs, keeping a smile on my team riders faces was no easy task; but now I continually score above 85% in producing the right boards, and that magic board seems to appear more often than not. After mastering the surfboard program with my team riders, I can now implement this service into my custom orders, which is the heart of my business.


Now a customer can work directly with me in the development of his or her new surfboard design. It is possible for the new surfboard to be seen visually on the computer screen before the manufacturing begins. This gives the customer total confidence in the shaper and in the final product.
- Murray Burton