KoBaS (Knowledge-Based customised Services) is a Framework Program Integrated project supporting the creation of a network of high-tech SMEs offering quickly deployable, affordable, easy-to-use, customised solutions to builders and users of manufacturing machines. In cooperation with industrial end-users and research institutes they develop �intelligent� manufacturing machines incorporating cutting-edge technologies (virtual reality, 3D simulation, knowledge-based systems) into SME-tailored integrated software solutions for machine task and process planning, maintenance, training, and management support.