Implications of Computer-Aided Design for Work and Performance

Abstract

In a study of the implications of computer-aided design (CAD) for work and performance, the authors tested the proposition that CAD not only is superior to manual drafting and design technology, but also leads to job designs and work group structures that further improve the performance of designers and drafters. The sample consisted of 88 current and prospective CAD users at two adjacent facilities of a large research and manufacturing corporation. Based on questionnaire responses and interviews with the designers, drafters, and supervisors, the authors found that CAD's benefits are linked to the characteristics of the dominant technology, job design, and work group. Therefore, fulfilling the promise of CAD depends considerably on how well the concomitant changes in the workplace are managed.