CAD, short for computer-aided design, is a software that is now widely used to help professionals and creatives mock-up ideas and create prototypes on a digital interface. The early days of blueprinting were inaccessible and costly, creating a need for evolution as digital technology became more sophisticated.
The 80s were considered the dawn of digitized design, as for the first time society saw physical drawing boards and tools replaced with styluses, keyboards and monitors. However, these early models were very exclusive, with a system priced at over $100,000 and a single seat in one of these labs averaging $50,000. The 90s introduced CAD to different processing systems such as Windows. This lowered the price of a seat but greatly increased the overall price of the system. CAD was still highly inaccessible, making it hard for a wide array of professionals to benefit from its evolution.
Today, CAD can be used to make almost anything, from complex machinery to simple household items. Additionally, CAD enthusiasts have found ways to gather around the world. Millions of global users make up over 200 niche interest groups, sharing ideas online or at in-person conventions. This community is largely made possible due to advancements in CAD, such as the expansion to personal mobile devices. CAD is now compatible with laptops and other modern devices, making it possible to design on the go, from anywhere in the world. These developments also turned CAD into not only a tool for professionals, but also, a meaningful tool for students, children, and recreational creatives everywhere.
Experts predict that CAD still has room to develop, especially with the anticipated introduction of artificial intelligence to the system. Integrating AI with CAD will offer digital design assistants or “companions” to users, streamlining the design process and increasing efficiency across disciplines.
