CAD (Global Market)

2024: Free CAD FreeCAD released, in development for 23 years

On November 19, 2024, version 1.0.0 of the free computer-aided design (CAD) system FreeCAD was released. This product, which in some cases can become an alternative to AutoCAD, took more than 23 years to create. Read more here.

2023

Global sales of building engineering software for the year reached $5.84 billion

In 2023, the global market for building engineering software reached $5.84 billion. For comparison, a year earlier, costs in this area were estimated at $5.47 billion. Thus, growth was recorded at the level of 7%. Industry trends are addressed in the Market Research Future survey published in mid-December 2024.

Analysts take into account the sales of MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Software) solutions - tools for designing mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. One of the drivers of the market in question is the increasing emphasis on sustainable development in building construction and operation. As environmental regulations tighten, designers, engineers and architects are forced to adopt new technologies to help optimize energy efficiency, improve resource allocation and reduce harmful environmental impacts. This increases the need for MEP software. Such software helps in the integration of renewable energy sources, as well as modern heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.

The rapid development of technology also has a significant impact on the MEP market. Innovations such as building information modeling (BIM), 3D visualization, and cloud computing have changed the way engineers implement projects. The introduction of artificial intelligence and machine learning into MEP platforms further enhances capabilities, providing predictive service and improving decision-making. The application of AI not only optimizes workflows, but also reduces the number of errors, saving time and cost when performing complex projects. Companies that use the MEASURE can improve productivity and efficiency.

Urbanization is called another driver. Demand for new residential, commercial and industrial buildings is growing around the world, which in turn is driving the need for MEP systems. Cities require more sophisticated utility networks to meet the needs of citizens, leading to increased demand for specialized software for building engineering systems.

The authors of the study identify four key market segments: design, construction, facility management and maintenance of operations. In 2023, the first of these areas provided revenue in the amount of $1.75 billion. Construction and facility management costs are estimated at $1.5 billion and $1.3 billion, respectively. Operating activities accounted for $1.29 billion. Significant market players are named:

• Aveva;
• Trimble;
• Graitec;
• Glodon;
• Oracle;
• Sage;
• Bentley Systems;
• Autodesk;
• Procore Technologies;
• DuPont;
• CCT;
• AccuVal;
• Rics;
• eVISO;
• Nemetschek.

The leader in terms of geography in 2023 was North America with an estimate of $2.26 billion: the dominance of the region is explained by the active introduction of advanced technologies. This is followed by Europe with $1.75 billion, and the Asia-Pacific region closes the top three, where expenses amounted to $1.2 billion. South America brought in $0.38 billion, and the total contribution of the Middle East and Africa was at the level of $0.25 billion.

At the end of 2024, revenue in the software segment for the design of building engineering systems is estimated at $6.23 billion. Market Research Future analysts believe that in the future, the CAGR will be 6.73%. As a result, by 2032, costs on a global scale could increase to $10.49 billion.^[1]

The volume of the global CAD market for the year reached $9.33 billion

In 2023, costs in the global computer-aided design (CAD) systems market amounted to $9.33 billion. The demand for such solutions is growing steadily, which is explained by advances in technology and the continued introduction of innovations. This is stated in a study by Market Research Future, the results of which TAdviser got acquainted with in early November 2024.

The main factors contributing to the expansion of the market under consideration are a surge in research activities, technological progress and modernization of production processes. CAD tools are becoming more accessible through cloud computing, providing flexibility and additional collaboration capabilities, while reducing costs. The industry is also being stimulated by the introduction of augmented (AR) and virtual reality ( VR) tools: these technologies take visualization and interaction with models to the next level. In segments where realistic presentation of projects is critical, such as architecture and construction, integration of AR/VR with CAD software helps identify errors early and make better decisions. The development of artificial intelligence has a positive impact on the industry.

Among the main areas of application of CAD, the authors of the study distinguish electrical and electronics, automotive, construction, power and materials, industrial equipment, media and entertainment, etc. It is said that construction occupies the largest share, since in this sector CAD systems are a vital tool that allows engineers to carefully work out 2D- and 3D models, drawings and plans. CAD improves accuracy and efficiency throughout the project lifecycle to avoid errors and reduce costs. At the same time, advanced 3D modeling functions improve analysis, which is especially important for projects with complex terrain and structures.

Geographically, Asia-Pacific is leading, driven by the widespread use of CAD in countries such as China, Japan and India. In addition, there are significant investments in various industries, including defense, construction, manufacturing and automotive: this further stimulates the demand for computer-aided design tools. The second largest region in terms of CAD costs is North America, and Europe closes the top three. Market Research Future's list of leading global market players includes:

• Autodesk;
• Trimble;
• Dassault Systemes;
• Bentley Systems;
• Siemens;
• Encore Software;
• Hexagon AB
• TurboCAD;
• CAD International;
• SmartDraw;
• Zwsoft;
• Gstarsoft;
• Ansys.

The authors of the report say that the global CAD industry is consolidating amid growing competition: acquisitions, mergers and other strategic market changes are taking place to improve operational efficiency. CAD software is widely used by engineers, architects and designers in various industries. At the same time, cloud solutions are becoming more and more popular.

At the end of 2024, revenue in the global CAD market is estimated at $9.89 billion. Market Research Future experts predict that in the future the CAGR (average annual growth rate in complex percentages) will be 6%. As a result, by 2032, costs on a global scale could rise to $15.8 billion.^[2]

2021: Global CAD market up $0.6 billion to $9.4 billion

The volume of the global market for computer-aided design (CAD) systems at the end of 2021 amounted to $9.4 billion, an increase of about $0.6 billion compared to sales a year ago of $8.8 billion. Such data are provided in a study by Jon Peddie Research (JPR), released on September 26, 2022.

Шаблон:Quote 'Large sales and large number of CAD users suggest that this market has an impact on the development of computer equipment, graphics equipment, servers and even mobile devices, "said Jon Peddie Research Vice President Kathleen Maher.

The volume of the global market for computer-aided design systems amounted to $9.4 billion

According to experts, in 2021, the market for computer-aided design systems began to grow stronger than ever, thanks to digitalization, which affects all aspects of design and design in each discipline. The emergence of CAD along with standardized network protocols marked the birth of digital technology for design and design in the 1980s. After 40 years, these technologies have become part of digitalization and helped create digital twins.

Large CAD customers in the automotive, aviation, construction, engineering, as well as manufacturing and energy industries gravitate towards system design, the researchers note. The market is moving from boxed software tools to integrated engineering systems to support projects at all stages - from concept to implementation. Often customers choose integrated products from the same vendors to build their systems, but they have to choose several manufacturers. No supplier does everything at once, although it seeks to develop more comprehensive solutions. Customers now have an advantage and put pressure on vendors to ensure compatibility of software tools from different companies, the study noted.

The following companies were named the largest CAD manufacturers by analysts (listed in alphabetical order): Autodesk, Aveva, Bentley Systems, Dassault, Graebert, Hexagon, Nemetschek, PTC, Siemens Digital Industries and Trimble. In total, the study covers data on 36 vendors and 53 products.

The global CAD market grew by $0.6 billion

Depending on the complexity of modeling and the developed documentation, it is customary to distinguish between 3 types of computer-aided design systems:

• "Light" - designed for the manufacture of ordinary flat drawings of the product.
• "Medium" - support the construction of volumetric models, are relatively simple to master, but they have all the functionality of more advanced systems.
• "Heavy" - allows you to make complex models, drawings, engineering calculations and executable files for the most complex products, such as turbines, aircraft and sea vessels, etc. They require significant computing power and high personnel qualifications.

Analysts noted two counter-trends: "Heavy" computer-aided design systems are gradually becoming more user-friendly, and requirements for design documentation, quality of calculations and modeling are constantly growing.

So, for example, their 3 main methods of engineering modeling ("solid" models, the highest quality, surface modeling and framework modeling) are the most in demand for CAD that support solid modeling.

According to analysts, the most important promising trend in the development of CAD is the transition to cloud technologies, when the client acquires access to the system for a certain period.^[3]

2019: CAD Market Size Tops $9.3 Billion

The volume of the global market for computer-aided design (CAD) systems in 2019 amounted to more than $9.3 billion, according to research company Research and Markets. Analysts did not specify the dynamics regarding 2018 and only noted that sales of such software are increasing.

According to experts, one of the main catalysts for the rise of the market are solutions used in the packaging industry, which unites manufacturers of packaging machines and equipment, packaging materials and products. As packaging machines become more complex, designers and engineers use CAD software to solve mechatronic engineering problems, which contributes to the sales of relevant IT solutions, analysts say.

CAD market size exceeded $9.3 billion

Another positive factor for the market under consideration is associated with the use of CAD in the automotive industry. Automakers are committed to monitoring their reputation, so they are doing everything to minimize the recall of cars. In addition, the introduction of network-enabled vehicles on the roads encourages engineers to apply innovative solutions and tools such as CAD to facilitate product development and design, the report explains.

At the same time, there are barriers that hinder market growth. Among them are a growing number of open source products and free CAD versions.

Geographically, the largest contribution to the positive dynamics of the CAD market is made by the Asia-Pacific region, where investments in the construction, defense, automotive and manufacturing industries are increasing. Japan is the leading computer-aided design software market in Asia Pacific. The rise of the market in this region will outstrip the growth of the market in other countries. At the same time, North America remained the largest market in 2019, which is likely to remain in first place in subsequent years largely due to the growing use of computer-aided design in the aerospace and defense industries.

Asia-Pacific makes the largest contribution to the positive dynamics of the CAD market

The study notes that the CAD market remains fragmented: it employs a large number of players, each of whom has a small share of revenue in the asset. Among the largest CAD manufacturers, analysts attributed the following companies (listed in alphabetical order):

• Autodesk;
• Bentley Systems;
• Dassault Systemes;
• Fujifilm Holdings;
• General Electric;
• Hexagon;
• IMSI Design;
• PTC;
• Siemens;
• Trimble.

According to experts, the use of CAD makes it possible to comprehensively optimize the organization of production at all stages - from the purchase of materials and components to the management of the production of spare parts for sold products. It is important that many computer-aided design systems allow you to obtain at the output not just design documentation, but files ready for loading into machines - processing centers with numerical software control. This allows you to efficiently organize distributed production, minimizing the risks of reducing the quality of finished products. Large companies can focus on key manufacturing processes, providing themselves with the necessary ancillary products, parts and spare parts by forming an ecosystem of small and medium-sized manufacturing companies.

Analysts call the transition to cloud technologies a promising trend in the development of CAD, when a client acquires access to the system for a certain period.^[4]

2014: Autodesk dominance persists

In April 2015, the analytical company Jon Peddie Research (JPR) published the results of a study of the global market for design automation software (Computer Aided Design, CAD, CAD). Experts have recorded the continued growth in sales of these solutions and the continued dominance of Autodesk.

According to experts, the volume of the CAD market in 2014 amounted to $7.81 billion against $7.23 billion a year earlier. The number of users of these products has reached 5.15 million people.

The CAD market has seen modest growth rates in recent decades, the report said, though it has experienced significant changes since the crisis in 2009. After them, the market became more efficient, the personnel situation on it improved, the potential for growth for subsequent years was formed. It is predicted that from 2015 to 2017, CAD sales will grow annually by 4% and by the end of this period will reach $8.7 billion.

The dynamics of increasing demand for CAD in the regions depends on the local economic situation. In countries where the economy is on the rise, production and construction volumes are increasing, which means that design automation software is being sold better, explained JPR analyst Kathleen Maher.

The list of the largest CAD manufacturers is still headed by Autodesk, whose market share was 29% in 2014. In second place is Dassault Systemes (22%), in third place is Siemens Digital Industries Software (formerly Siemens PLM Software) (11%). The leadership group also includes Hexagon (10%), PTC (9%), Bentley Systems (Bentley Systems) (6%), Nemetschek (3%), Aveva (2%) and Trimble (2%).

List of the largest CAD manufacturers, JPR data for 2014

According to Kathleen Maher, the CAD market is open to new players, and they take advantage of the opportunities provided, offering all new technologies. The analyst attributed Hexagon, Trimble, SpaceClaim (bought by Ansys) and GrabCAD (owned by Stratasys) to the companies that changed the situation in the industry.

These and other players promote market trends such as virtualization, cloud and mobile technologies, which have become essential components of manufacturers' business plans.

"Take at least mobile devices: it's difficult to find a CAD provider that doesn't create tablet apps," said Kathleen Maher.^[5]

2012: CAD Market Geographic Distribution - Europe Leads

As for the geographical distribution of the CAD market, in 2012 it took first place. Europe Analysts explain this by the presence on the European continent of a large number of enterprises from automotive, aircraft, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and, electronic engineers which are the main users of CAD.

Autodesk, Dassault Systemes, Siemens PLM Software and PTC are named as the leading players in the CAD market.

Commenting on the results of the study, TechNavio notes that due to increased competition, enterprises are increasing efforts to retain customers and meet their needs and therefore are trying to produce increasingly high-quality products. At the same time, global and local vendors of design automation tools to promote their CAD systems are increasing investments in some developing countries. As a result, enterprises in these countries are beginning to use these tools more actively to improve the quality of their products and production efficiency. In addition, suppliers began holding workshops, participating in industry exhibitions, organizing roadshows and strengthening relationships with educational institutions to introduce potential customers from industrial industries to their systems. According to analysts, such aggressive marketing is the most striking recent trend in the CAD market.

According to the forecast of the analytical company TechNavio, the global market for Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software will grow annually by an average of 8.6% in the next five years and will reach $8.3 billion by 2016.

Analysts consider the need for enterprises to expand product visualization capabilities as the main driver of growth. And the main brakes are piracy and the increasing popularity of open source software. These trends seem to be due to the fact that the implementation of CAD solutions requires high initial investment, as well as considerable expenses for training employees to use these tools effectively. This holds back the spread of CAD.

2011: CAD overcame the consequences of the recession and began to develop actively

According to Jon Peddie Research, the CAD market has overcome the consequences of the recession in 2009 and is actively developing. As a result, in 2011, its volume, according to preliminary estimates, reached $7 billion, which is more than in the best 2008 ($6.7 billion), and the number of users increased to 19 million people (in 2010 there were 18.5 million).

Looking at the trends of the last decade, analysts highlight globalization, which has had a huge impact on all segments of the CAD market. The economies of developing countries are growing rapidly, and the stagnation caused by financial problems continues in the developed ones. The share of outsourcing is increasing in production, and as a result, more industrial enterprises are moving from Western countries to Eastern ones.

In terms of technology, the main trend is that information management becomes an integral part of the design process. Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) and Building Information Model (BIM ) technologies are designed to enable geographically distributed design teams to work together and enable enterprises to interact with suppliers, partners, and customers.

Although this report covers only design automation tools, analysts believe that one cannot fail to note the impact that the evolution of information systems, which significantly increase the efficiency of engineers, has on the CAD market.

But life doesn't stand still, and new trends are emerging. So, recently, the wave of industrial outsourcing began to gradually subside, since in the West it becomes obvious that a number of industries should be left at home. This is facilitated by the economic crisis, due to which salaries in developed countries have decreased and hiring local personnel has become more profitable than before.

Another feature of the current design situation is an increase in the proportion of older employees, especially in the discrete and continuous production segments. This opens up prospects for young specialists with the necessary knowledge and experience.

As for the peculiarities of the CAD market itself, the distribution of demand is leveled off in the territorial plan. Now 37% of the market is in both America, 28% in the EMEA region, 21% in Asia and 4% in the rest of the countries. At the same time, the markets of China and India are growing most actively, the development of which has not even been slowed down by the crisis, new regions such as Latin America, Africa, Southeast Asia and the Middle East are joining them.

In industry terms, the most severe crisis affected the segment of construction CAD (Architecture, Engineering, Construction - AEC).

In the future, the main engines of the CAD market will be new distribution models and platforms. Design automation systems are complex products that traditionally provide their developers with high margins. But the proliferation of cloud and mobile technologies opens up new opportunities for suppliers: on the one hand, they will be able to promote inexpensive applications for consumers to the mass market, and on the other, they will be able to offer high-quality services to those customers who have purchased subscriptions to such services.

Notes