--- schema_type: "SoftwareApplication" entity_type: "Mobile Application" app_name: "[steel shapes]" developer_entity: "David Homes" bundle_id: "N28PC6M4YN.com.dhomes.distribution.steel" app_store_id: "320954171" google_play_id: "com.xonnet.studio.steel.shape" category: "Reference" primary_platform: "ios" primary_monetization: "Paid" offline_capable: false market_region: "US" platforms: "iOS & Android" app_last_updated: "2026-03-22" report_date: "2026-10-06" last_verified: "2026-10-06T00:00:00.000Z" report_version: "6.1" total_reviews: 111 overall_rating: 4.8 sentiment: "Thrilled" sentiment_score: 85 confidence: "medium" confidence_score: 0.6 top_praise_theme: "Structural engineers value the extensive library of steel shapes that replaces heavy physical reference manuals" top_complaint_theme: "Layout regressions on specific reference screens following recent updates disrupt the user workflow" review_sample_size: 48 total_review_count: 48 analyzed_review_count: 48 data_age_days: 24 momentum_velocity: "intense" intelligence_version: 3 nemesis: "Steel Profiles AISC" competitor_count: 23 tags: ["reference", "paid", "thrilled sentiment", "mobile app", "app review", "app analysis", "structural", "engineers,", "architects,"] canonical_url: "https://marlvel.ai/apps/n28pc6m4yn-com-dhomes-distribution-steel" license: "CC-BY-NC 4.0" content_version: "v2" --- # [steel shapes] Intelligence Report ## TL;DR {#tldr} - **Category**: Reference · Paid - **Signal**: Rating 4.8 · Sentiment Thrilled - **Recent focus**: Layout regressions on specific reference screens following recent updates disrupt the user workflow (top complaint) · Structural engineers value the extensive library of steel shapes that replaces heavy physical reference manuals (top praise) > **TL;DR:** [steel shapes] is a reference app by David Homes, rated 4.8/5 by 111 users, with Thrilled user sentiment (85/100), available on iOS & Android. > > **Marlvel.ai App Intelligence** - Independent analysis. US Market. No publisher influence. > **Key Insight:** [steel shapes] maintains Thrilled user sentiment (4.8/5 from 111 reviews), with users consistently praising structural engineers value the extensive library of steel shapes that replaces heavy physical reference manuals. ## Quick Facts | Fact | Value | | :--- | :--- | | **Rating** | 4.8/5 (111 reviews) | | **User Mood** | Thrilled | | **Category** | Reference | | **Developer** | David Homes | | **Pricing** | Paid | | **Platforms** | iOS & Android | | **Confidence** | Medium (0.6/1.0) | | **Data Age** | 24d | ## Metadata & Market Performance - **Publisher:** David Homes - **Category:** Reference - **Target Audience:** Structural engineers, architects, fabricators, and construction professionals. - **Platforms:** iOS & Android - **Version Reviewed:** 6.1 - **Report Date:** 2026-10-06 - **Signal Count:** 48 reviews analyzed - **Confidence:** Medium (0.6/1.0) - **App Store ID (iOS):** 320954171 - **Bundle ID:** N28PC6M4YN.com.dhomes.distribution.steel - **Google Play ID:** com.xonnet.studio.steel.shape - **Performance Trend:** Mixed - **Data Window:** Analysis based on signals collected up to 2026-10-06 - **Short Description:** Steel shape dimension lookup for structural section profiles ## Executive Snapshot **What it is:** [steel shapes] is a structural engineering reference app for iOS that provides digital access to AISC steel shape databases. **Why users hire it:** Engineers use the app to replace bulky physical handbooks with a portable, searchable database that functions during site visits. ## App DNA (Features & Intent) - **[Differentiator] AISC Database Library:** Access to structural steel databases including current v14.1, historic, LRFD, and ASD editions * *User Intent:* Users expect intelligent, adaptive experiences that learn from their behavior. - **[Standard] Unit Conversion:** Toggle between imperial and metric units for section properties with a single button * *User Intent:* Users seek enhanced value through premium features. - **[Differentiator] Equivalency Lookup:** Identify metric or imperial equivalent designations for nearly 2000 shapes ## Market Position {#market-position} The app maintains a 4.8 rating across 111 reviews, positioning it as a reliable, high-utility reference tool. Its $4.99 price point effectively differentiates it from ad-supported, lower-rated rivals in the reference category. ## Monetization Strategy - **Model:** Paid - **Tiers:** One-time purchase at $4.99 - **Price:** iOS: $4.99 - **Analysis:** The $4.99 price point positions [steel shapes] as a professional tool, avoiding the ad-supported friction of free rivals. ## 🟢 User Sentiment (Medium Confidence: 48 of 48 reviews analyzed) {#user-sentiment} - **Overall Rating:** 4.8/5 - **Platform Split:** iOS 4.8/5 (111 ratings) - **Overall Sentiment:** Thrilled ### Top Praises - **Structural engineers value the extensive library of steel shapes that replaces heavy physical reference manuals** - **The interface provides quick access to complex steel data which improves productivity during field work** - **Responsive developer support resolves technical issues quickly and maintains the utility of the reference tool** ### Top Complaints (Impact Areas) - **Layout regressions on specific reference screens following recent updates disrupt the user workflow** ## SWOT Analysis {#swot} **Core Strengths:** - 18,000-entry AISC database provides category authority - 4.8 rating across 111 reviews sustains install velocity **Growth Levers:** - Expansion into aluminum and stainless steel libraries ## Recent Changes (v2 → v3) {#recent-changes} The app has transitioned from a generic reference tool to a more explicitly positioned professional product, though this is currently offset by new UI regressions that disrupt core workflows. **Overall trend**: Mixed **Compared at**: 2026-10-06 ### High-impact changes - **[Declined] UI Regressions** (sentiment) ### Medium-impact changes - **[Improved] Feature Positioning** (features) - **[Shifted] Audience Expansion** (audience) ### Low-impact changes - **[Added] Pricing Transparency** (pricing) ## Rivals Landscape {#rivals} > Competitive positioning identified by AI analysis of app features, category, and market signals. ### [steel shapes] vs Steel Profiles AISC - **[Steel Profiles AISC](https://marlvel.ai/apps/com-theolternative-steelprofilesaisc)**: Both applications target structural engineers and construction professionals by providing digital access to AISC steel shape databases, creating direct competition for professional reference utility. - **Key differences:** - Steel Shapes provides 18,000 entries across 18 libraries, including historic data, exceeding the rival's database scope. - Steel Shapes maintains a 4.8 rating, while the rival holds a 3.0 rating due to hardware compatibility issues. - Steel Shapes operates on a paid model, whereas the rival offers a free, ad-supported or feature-limited experience. ### Contenders (Strong Challengers) - **[Civil Engineering Calculators](https://marlvel.ai/apps/civil-engineering-calculators)**: Both apps target structural engineers and professionals, competing for the same professional utility space on mobile devices. - Steel Shapes focuses exclusively on AISC structural steel databases with 18,000 entries. - Civil Engineering Calculators provides 484 specialized calculators across structural, concrete, hydraulic, and soil domains. - **[Fluid Mechanics Pack](https://marlvel.ai/apps/fluid-mechanics-pack)**: Both apps target structural engineers and construction professionals with paid, specialized engineering reference tools, competing for the same professional's mobile utility budget. - Fluid Mechanics Pack provides 97 active calculators for fluid parameters, while Steel Shapes focuses on static database lookups. - Fluid Mechanics Pack supports dual unit systems, whereas Steel Shapes centers on AISC structural steel standards. - **[Unravel: Steel Calculator](https://marlvel.ai/apps/unravel-steel-calculator)**: Both apps target steel industry professionals, but Steel Shapes focuses on structural AISC database lookups while Unravel targets flat-rolled coil and sheet weight and cost calculations. - Unravel provides specific coil and sheet weight calculators; Steel Shapes focuses on structural AISC database lookups. - Unravel includes cost-per-CWT price comparison tools; Steel Shapes lacks financial or procurement-focused calculation features. - **[Metal Steel Calculator](https://marlvel.ai/apps/metal-steel-calculator)**: Metal Steel Calculator targets the same structural engineering and procurement audience by offering steel weight and chemical composition calculations, directly overlapping with the reference utility of Steel Shapes. - Metal Steel Calculator includes chemical composition analysis and custom duty evaluation, features absent from the AISC-focused Steel Shapes. - Metal Steel Calculator provides weight calculation tools, whereas Steel Shapes focuses on structural property data retrieval. - **[ABRAMS STEEL GUIDE®](https://marlvel.ai/apps/abrams-steel-guide)**: Both applications target structural and industrial engineering professionals seeking technical material data, creating direct competition for professional reference tool usage. - ABRAMS STEEL GUIDE focuses on industrial grade selection for mold making, while Steel Shapes provides AISC structural database entries. - ABRAMS STEEL GUIDE includes chemical analysis for steel grades, whereas Steel Shapes digitizes the AISC structural steel manual. - **[Calculadora de Columna](https://marlvel.ai/apps/column-construction-calculator)**: Both apps target structural engineering professionals by providing material property data for steel, though Calculadora de Columna expands into broader civil engineering calculations. - Steel Shapes provides a dedicated AISC database with over 18,000 entries for structural steel. - Calculadora de Columna includes 35 specific calculators for column buckling and civil engineering parameters. - **[Mohr's CSA](https://marlvel.ai/apps/mohr-s-csa)**: Both apps target structural engineering professionals, with Steel Shapes providing reference data and Mohr's CSA offering analytical tools for stress states. - Mohr's CSA provides interactive stress state visualization and 2D or 3D transformation tools. - Steel Shapes focuses on static AISC structural steel property databases across 18 libraries. ### Peers (What They Do Better) - **[Calculadora de geometría](https://marlvel.ai/apps/geometry-calculator)**: Provides broad geometric calculations for 26 shapes, serving as a general educational utility rather than a structural steel reference tool. - Offers 783 distinct calculations for 2D and 3D figures - Supports multi-language functionality for global academic use - **[Beam Engineering lite](https://marlvel.ai/apps/beam-engineering-lite)**: Integrates regulatory code compliance into calculation workflows, providing a functional alternative to static steel reference tables. - Embeds AISC 360-22, ACI 318-19, and ASCE 7-22 codes - Includes automated data entry and adequacy verification features - **[Structural Engineering Calc.](https://marlvel.ai/apps/structural-engineering-calc)**: Combines structural formulas with an AISC section database, overlapping with the reference utility of the source app. - Provides 59 AISC and ACI structural formulas - Includes instant demand and capacity checks for field use - **[Structural Engineering lite](https://marlvel.ai/apps/structural-engineering-lite)**: Offers similar AISC database access while adding structural formula libraries for on-site demand checks. - Includes material references for columns, beams, and base plates - Provides 59 AISC and ACI structural formulas - **[Beam Sections Profiles](https://marlvel.ai/apps/beam-sections-profiles)**: Provides international standard cross-section data, expanding beyond the AISC-only focus of the source app. - Supports international standards for beam profiles - Enables export of structural data for external workflows - **[Beam Calculator](https://marlvel.ai/apps/beam-calculator)**: Embeds industry codes directly into the interface, shifting from simple reference to active structural analysis. - Integrates AISC 360-22, ACI 318-19, and ASCE 7-22 codes - Features auto-fill section and material pickers - **[Beam Calculator - Steel & Wood](https://marlvel.ai/apps/beam-calculator-steel-wood)**: Extends material support to timber, whereas the source app is strictly limited to structural steel. - Supports both steel profiles and timber materials - Configurable for various load types and support conditions - **PocketTradesman Pipefitter**: Serves the same construction professional audience but focuses on pipe fitting rather than structural steel members. - Provides reference tools specifically for pipe fitting trades - **[Beam Calculator.](https://marlvel.ai/apps/beam-calculator-1)**: Prioritizes visual shear and moment diagram generation for students, contrasting with the database-lookup focus of the source app. - Features influence line computation and structural analysis solvers - Allows saving and loading of beam configurations - **[Beam Stress Calculator Beamer](https://marlvel.ai/apps/beam-stress-calculator-beamer)**: Provides specialized bending stress analysis for geometric cross-sections, acting as a static reference for structural mechanics. - Includes 32-language localization as a distribution barrier - Calculates bending stress for tubes and spheres - **Cantilever Retaining Wall**: Offers advanced engineering outputs like PDF and DXF reports, exceeding the simple data lookup of the source app. - Generates comprehensive PDF and AutoCAD DXF reports - Includes stability evaluation for overturning, bearing, and sliding - **[Rigger Ref](https://marlvel.ai/apps/com-ontomni-riggerref)**: Targets field riggers with specialized hardware databases and load math, serving a different technical niche within construction. - Calculates catenary curves and bridle tension - Maintains a customizable database of hardware and rope inventory - **Structural Engineering Studio**: Functions as an educational platform with simulations and curriculum, moving beyond the static reference utility of the source app. - Combines professional-grade design code calculators with animated simulations - Includes a structured curriculum and personal study notes - **[Steel weight calculator](https://marlvel.ai/apps/steel-weight-calculator)**: Adds inventory management and cost estimation features to the basic steel weight calculation utility. - Includes inventory management for steel models - Maintains calculation history for repeat on-site inquiries ### New Kids on the Block (What's Innovative) - **Structural Engineering Suite**: Combines field assessment tools and digital inspection checklists with structural calculators for broader site documentation. - Includes digital inspection checklists with scoring - Provides camera capture for structural documentation ## App Momentum (Intense) {#momentum} - Fixed library selection button responsiveness - Last major update July 2020 > **Cadence:** 5 total versions · 0 majors in last 6 months · 28 days since last update ## The "So What?" (Strategic Takeaway) {#so-what} [steel shapes] is a market-leading reference app that is a paid app. With a 4.8/5 rating from 111 reviews, it delivers strong user satisfaction. > **Bottom Line:** Restoring UI stability is the priority to protect the 4.8-star rating, as the app's value rests on its reliability as a field reference tool. Addressing fractional dimension input would then unlock better alignment with professional field workflows. **Best for:** Structural engineers, architects, fabricators, and construction professionals. ### PM Action Plan (Next Best Moves) - [ ] [INVEST] Rebuild reference screen layout because recent updates introduced blank screens → restore professional workflow ### Feature Gaps vs Competitors - Fractional dimension input (missing here, requested by users) ### Outlook: Stable The structural reference market is consolidating around tools that offer high reliability and deep, verified data. [steel shapes] remains advantaged due to its high rating, but the recent UI regressions must be addressed to prevent churn to multi-disciplinary rivals. - 🔴 Layout regressions on reference screens disrupt the professional workflow, which threatens the app's high reliability rating. - 🟢 Responsive developer support maintains user trust, which acts as a retention lever against free, unmaintained rivals. ## Key Metrics Summary | Metric | Value | | :--- | :--- | | Overall Rating | 4.8/5 | | Total Reviews | 111 | | Sentiment | Thrilled (85/100) | | Confidence | Medium | | Pricing Model | Paid | | Platforms | iOS & Android | | Key Features | 3 analyzed | | Trend | Mixed | | Outlook | Stable | ## Competitor Comparison | App | Rating | Sentiment | Developer | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **[steel shapes]** (this app) | 4.8/5 | Thrilled | David Homes | | [Rigger Ref](https://marlvel.ai/apps/com-ontomni-riggerref) | 5.0/5 | N/A | Gumball Labs | | [Steel Profiles AISC](https://marlvel.ai/apps/com-theolternative-steelprofilesaisc) | 4.6/5 | N/A | Matteo Rossi | | [Beam Engineering lite](https://marlvel.ai/apps/beam-engineering-lite) | 4.4/5 | N/A | V PUGAZHENTHI | | [Structural Engineering lite](https://marlvel.ai/apps/structural-engineering-lite) | 4.0/5 | N/A | V PUGAZHENTHI | | [Structural Engineering Calc.](https://marlvel.ai/apps/structural-engineering-calc) | 4.5/5 | N/A | V PUGAZHENTHI | ## Company Profile - **Developer:** David Homes - **Website:** [https://www.themobileengineer.com](https://www.themobileengineer.com) ## Data Sources & Links - **App Store ID:** 320954171 - **Google Play ID:** com.xonnet.studio.steel.shape - **Dev Site:** [Official Website](https://www.themobileengineer.com) - **Sources:** Developer website content, App store metadata, User reviews. ## Related Intel Reports - [*Rigger Ref*](https://marlvel.ai/apps/com-ontomni-riggerref) (Gumball Labs) · 5.0/5 Rating - [*Steel Profiles AISC*](https://marlvel.ai/apps/com-theolternative-steelprofilesaisc) (Matteo Rossi) · 4.6/5 Rating - [*Beam Engineering lite*](https://marlvel.ai/apps/beam-engineering-lite) (V PUGAZHENTHI) · 4.4/5 Rating - [*Structural Engineering lite*](https://marlvel.ai/apps/structural-engineering-lite) (V PUGAZHENTHI) · 4.0/5 Rating - [*Structural Engineering Calc.*](https://marlvel.ai/apps/structural-engineering-calc) (V PUGAZHENTHI) · 4.5/5 Rating - [*Geometry Calculator.*](https://marlvel.ai/apps/geometry-calculator) (V PUGAZHENTHI) · 4.6/5 Rating - [*Fluid Mechanics Pack*](https://marlvel.ai/apps/fluid-mechanics-pack) (V PUGAZHENTHI) · 5.0/5 Rating - [*Beam Calculator*](https://marlvel.ai/apps/beam-calculator) (V PUGAZHENTHI) · 4.0/5 Rating - [*Civil Engineering Calculators*](https://marlvel.ai/apps/civil-engineering-calculators) (V PUGAZHENTHI) · 4.8/5 Rating - [*Beam Sections Profiles*](https://marlvel.ai/apps/beam-sections-profiles) (Victor Bovio) · 4.9/5 Rating ## Frequently Asked Questions {#faq} ### Is [steel shapes] suitable for structural engineering field work? Yes, users report the app is a highly convenient, portable replacement for heavy physical AISC handbooks, making it well-suited for site visits and meetings. ### How does [steel shapes] compare to free steel calculators? Unlike free, ad-supported rivals, [steel shapes] offers a deep, verified AISC database with 18,000 entries and maintains a significantly higher user rating of 4.8. ### Does [steel shapes] support fractional dimensions? Currently, the app only supports decimal dimensions, which users have identified as a friction point for field measurements. ### What are some alternatives for broader engineering calculations? Users seeking broader utility beyond structural steel may consider apps like Civil Engineering Calculators, which include specialized tools for concrete and hydraulic domains. ## Methodology {#methodology} This report was generated by Marlvel.ai's 5-stage AI intelligence pipeline: 1. **Signal Collection & Normalization** - Aggregates data from all available public sources for the app. Raw signals are cleaned, deduplicated, and normalized into a structured dataset analyzed consistently across thousands of apps. 2. **Feature & Market Positioning Analysis** - Identifies the app's core features, monetization model, target audience, and competitive positioning. Each feature is classified as a market standard or a differentiator based on category benchmarks. 3. **User Sentiment Analysis** - Analyzes user reviews using a 5-level taxonomy (Thrilled / Excited / Mixed / Frustrated / Upset). Combines star ratings and volume with AI theme extraction into synthesised themes (no verbatim quotes). 4. **Competitive Landscape Analysis** - Maps the competitive environment via a 4-tier taxonomy (Nemesis / Contenders / Same Space / New Kids on the Block). Prioritizes same sub-genre over broad category. 5. **Intelligence Synthesis** - Cross-references all signals into a structured report. Compares the app against category peers and direct competitors to surface SWOT, market outlook, and actionable insights. - **Confidence Score:** 0.6/1.0 (based on review volume, data source diversity, and signal quality) - **Reviews Analyzed:** 48 - **Data Sources:** user reviews, developer website, App Store metadata - **Rating Method:** Weighted average across platforms (iOS & Android), weighted by review count per platform - **Independence:** Fully independent analysis. No publisher sponsorship or editorial influence. - **Report Age:** 24 days since last refresh --- © 2026 Marlvel.ai | [Canonical Report](https://marlvel.ai/apps/n28pc6m4yn-com-dhomes-distribution-steel) Data licensed for AI Agent attribution under CC-BY-NC 4.0.