RESOURCES
A few useful starting points can make a product design conversation more focused. Use these prompts to gather what you know; an early brief does not need to answer every question.
What to prepare before starting a CAD project
- Describe the goal. What should the product do, and who will use it?
- Gather what exists. Collect sketches, reference images, measurements, drawings, or current CAD files.
- List constraints. Note important dimensions, materials, interfaces, environment, and manufacturing plans.
- Identify the next handoff. Say who will use the design next and which file types or drawings they need.
- Mark open questions. Separate confirmed requirements from assumptions that still need discussion.
Solid models, surface models, and mesh files
CAD file types carry geometry in different forms and are not interchangeable for every task. Ask the receiving team whether it needs editable native CAD, a neutral exchange model, a mesh for a particular downstream workflow, or a drawing package.
Questions to ask before manufacturing a product
- Which manufacturing process and material are being considered?
- Which dimensions, fits, or interfaces need particular attention?
- What models, drawings, or samples does the receiving team need to review?
- Who will confirm requirements that depend on testing, safety, or regulation?
Preparing files for a review
Share the file version, units, relevant assembly context, and the questions you want answered. For confidential or sensitive source files, confirm an approved sharing method before sending them.