Effectively Utilizing Computer-Aided Design Technology: The Role of Individual Difference Variables

Computer graphics and computer-aided design (CAD) technology is rapidly changing design and manufacturing in American industry. This paper sets forth a model of the individual difference factors which may impact task performance and affective reactions to the use of CAD technology. A standardized, scorable engineering task was developed which utilizes CAD technology, and a number of individual difference variables were examined with reference to the task. Results indicate that cognitive skills were strongly related to\u27 CAD engineering performance, user confidence, and perceived task difficulty. Experience and attitudinal variables were not found to be related to the measured outcomes Implications for employee selection and suggestions for future research are not provided