Rapid product development data management education for small and medium size enterprises

This paper details changes to coursework and laboratory exercises designed to integrate data management techniques into a Computer Aided Product Development (CAPD) teaching program by addressing crucial issues arising from the past and recent course developments. The revised program sought to increase students' knowledge of the tools and methodologies used for the management of product data generated in computer aided product development projects. In addition, a crucial undertaking to help realise the ongoing refinement and development of the CAPD course content is reported. This takes the form of a novel student survey which is conducted during the student's first period of full time industrial employment.