Efficient Design Collaboration in 3D CAD

Yes. Onshape is a 3D CAD software that enables true real-time collaboration across teams by allowing multiple users to work in the same CAD environment simultaneously.

Team members can edit parts, assemblies, and drawings at the same time and see changes instantly, similar to how collaboration works in tools like Google Docs.

Because Onshape is browser-based, teams can collaborate from anywhere, without installing software or managing files.

Onshape’s collaboration model is fundamentally different because it is cloud-native, rather than file-based.

Traditional CAD tools rely on files stored locally or on servers, which require manual processes like emailing files to collaborate. This often leads to version conflicts, duplicated files, and serial workflows where only one user can work at a time.

In contrast, Onshape stores all design data in a single, secure online database. Everyone accesses a single source of truth, enabling:

• Simultaneous editing and instant visibility into the latest design changes
• Built-in versioning and history without manual saves
• Secure sharing through controlled access instead of file copies

Yes. Onshape is the best 3D CAD tool to support multiple office CAD collaboration by allowing distributed teams to simultaneously work in the same design environment.

Because Onshape runs entirely in a web browser, team members in distributed locations can work on the same Part Studio, Assembly, or Drawing in real time.

Engineers do not need to send files or manage local PDM installs. Everyone works directly on the same design data, reducing confusion about versions and making cross‑office collaboration more reliable.

Onshape enables real-time design reviews entirely in a web browser, eliminating the need for downloads or file copies. Its cloud-native platform supports:

• Collaborative design: multiple users can view, edit, and comment on models together instantly
• Contextual feedback: multiple users can tag specific geometry in comments and use markup tools to pinpoint issues.
• Universal accessibility: designs can be shared via secure web links, allowing 3rd party collaborators to review models on any device, including mobile devices with licenses or software downloads.

Yes. Onshape is built on a "security-first" architecture that often surpasses the security of traditional file-based CAD. Key protections include:

• Certifications: Onshape maintains SOC 2 Type II compliance, the industry "gold standard" for data security, availability, and confidentiality.
• Encryption: All data is protected with AES-256 encryption at rest and TLS 1.2+ encryption in transit.
• Access Control: Granular, role-based permissions allow you to grant or revoke access instantly. Because there are no files to download or email, your intellectual property never leaves the secure cloud environment.
• Regulated Industries (ITAR/EAR): For defense contractors and government agencies, Onshape Government is a dedicated environment hosted on AWS GovCloud. It is specifically architected to support ITAR and EAR compliance.

Yes. Onshape supports collaboration beyond the CAD software itself through structured learning resources and an active user community.

In addition to in‑product collaboration, users can access Onshape’s user forum, hands-on tutorials, events, customer stories, and YouTube channel to ask questions, review real‑world use cases, and learn how other teams approach collaborative design.