INTERNET- ENABLED COMPUTER- AIDED DESIGN

dvances 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 engi-neering 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 th