Computer aided design, popularly referred to as CAD, involves a wide range of computer based tools. These tools are designed to assist engineers, architects, and design professionals in their activities. The entire process of design using CAD involves both software and sometimes specially created hardware. Modern day systems like 2D drafting, 3D modeling, and solid design modelers have CAD as their fundamental system. Manufacturers use CAD to design virtual products, which can be tested and measured for performance. Without CAD, the entire process of actually manufacturing a product and then testing it would be expensive. CAD is considered a revolutionary design tool, which has enabled cost-effective solutions and time-saving processes.

CAD is used basically to design and develop products. These products ultimately end up as goods used by consumers. CAD is most extensively used in the design and development of machinery. CAD is also used widely for the designing of all types of buildings. Engineering industries use CAD right from the product conceptualization stage across the entire process of manufacturing.

CAD is used by most modern day industries. Architecture, engineering, construction, mechanical, aviation, ship building, electronic, electrical, or automotive, you name it and the industry would be using CAD for some design purpose or the other. Such is the enormous popularity of CAD as a designing tool.

3D modeling and surface construction methods started being used in the 1960s, especially in the aircraft and automotive industries. Early days saw the development of the sketchpad, which could be termed as a precursor of CAD. The aerospace industry was to use CAD commercially and was the pioneer in furthering the popularity of CAD as a designing tool.

With the increasing use of computers, especially the growth of the PC market, CAD began to be used extensively for construction. CAD, which started with 2D in the 1970s, dramatically evolved with increased emphasis on 3D modeling and designing. Today there are a range of CAD based products available in the market, with some catering to the needs of niche areas.