The workshop is maybe one of the most important parts on the whole game. But first there is some stuff to be clear.
You use a warmech, which consists of four parts: Core, Left Arm, Right Arm and Support. The idea is to upgrade each of these parts, either on their basic characteristics (Physical, Shooting, Defense and Mobility). Or buying weaponry. Any of these upgrades cost the same kind of currency: £.
Another variable to take into account is the rank. It raises accordingly to your characteristics (a small internal calculation). When your rank is at its maximum (S:Legend), you will be unable to raise any more characteristics.
Two variables are delimited by rank. One of them are the encounters you get on the arena. The other one, is the amount of weapons you can equip on every part of your mech.