Internet-enabled computer aided design

Advances in computer networks are rapidly changing the way engineering is performed, making computer-aided design the front door to a web of interconnected software, information, and human resources. CAD software is the "browser" through which design interfaces with these resources. For engineering design, the network promises to integrate activities across enterprises and throughout product life cycles. This article describes some of the technology trends influencing network-enabled CAD, with a particular focus on how companies are assimilating new Internet and object-oriented concepts. It reflects nearly two years of discussions with many people in both the software and engineering industries, including discussions held at industry-focused panels and workshops sponsored by the National Institute of Standards and Technology.