Advancing ITAR and EAR Compliance with Cloud-Native CAD

Regulatory Compliance in Onshape

Onshape Government maintains U.S.-based data storage and processing capabilities through AWS GovCloud, which implements comprehensive activity logging, and ensures controlled access to technical data with detailed documentation of all transfers. Compliance can be achieved through robust end-use verification systems, classification management protocols, controlled technology transfer mechanisms, and thorough documentation of technical data access.

Onshape's Cloud-Native Architecture

Database-Driven Design System

Onshape's database architecture fundamentally transforms how engineering data is managed and secured. Unlike traditional file-based CAD systems that only track check-in operations, Onshape captures every design modification in real-time. This continuous tracking eliminates data loss risks while maintaining a complete audit trail. 

The system automatically maintains reference integrity, ensuring that even when components are renamed or modified, assembly relationships remain intact. This architectural approach provides an infinite audit trail with restore capabilities at any point in the design history.

Collaboration Infrastructure

Onshape enables simultaneous engineering activities through a sophisticated real-time collaboration system. Engineers can work concurrently on designs, with changes propagating instantly across all authorized sessions. 

The system maintains strict access controls while enabling this fluid collaboration, ensuring that all participants work within their authorized permissions.

Version Control and Data Management

Onshape's version control system is a comprehensive approach to tracking and managing design evolution. Every modification is automatically captured and stored in the database, creating an unbroken chain of design history. 

The system supports sophisticated release management processes, where multiple stakeholders could review and approve design changes while maintaining compliance documentation. The platform's ability to handle material and assembly modifications without breaking references showcases its robust data management capabilities.

Security Implementation

AWS GovCloud Infrastructure

Operating on AWS GovCloud infrastructure, Onshape implements FIPS 140-3 cryptography for data protection. This infrastructure ensures all data remains within U.S.-based storage and processing facilities, meeting ITAR requirements while maintaining NIST security standard compliance. The platform receives security updates, ensuring continuous protection against emerging threats while adding new functionality.

Access Control and Monitoring

Onshape has role-based authorization controls with granular permission management capabilities. All access attempts and actions are logged comprehensively, creating an auditable record of system interaction. The platform's security framework includes continuous threat monitoring and automated compliance verification, ensuring that all activities align with regulatory requirements.

Engineering Workflow Integration

Onshape Government supports diverse design and simulation tasks while maintaining compliance requirements. Engineers can create and simulate new linkage designs, manage assembly drawings, and securely import/export parts within the controlled environment. The system's browser-based access eliminates hardware dependencies while maintaining security protocols. This capability extends to handling controlled unclassified information, ensuring appropriate protection levels for different data classifications.

External Collaboration with Regulatory Boundaries

Onshape uses specific protocols for external partner interaction, demonstrated through secure design publication and sharing mechanisms. The system maintains granular control over external access while enabling efficient collaboration with contractors and agencies. This includes automated compliance verification for data sharing and comprehensive logging of external interactions, ensuring that all collaborative activities remain within regulatory boundaries.

Modern Engineering Workflows

Onshape Government's integration of cloud-native architecture with regulatory compliance creates a foundation for modern engineering workflows. The platform's continuous update cycle ensures adaptation to evolving requirements while maintaining security controls and enabling effective collaboration. As demonstrated through practical applications, Onshape successfully balances the demands of regulatory compliance with the need for efficient engineering processes.