Computer-aided design (CAD) is the use of computer technology for the design of objects, real or virtual. CAD often involves more than just shapes. Which one you choose or like is very much a matter of personal preference, and also the kind of activity or design tasks you wish to pursue.

EchoCAD has been developed specifically for the apparel industry and is designed to be used in a structured, logical way, very much the same methods being used to develop and manipulate garment patterns manually.

Creating a new style, along with the relevant information such as descriptive information, available sizes, body size measurements for all sizes, and associated requirements is created by using the File Manager in EchoCAD.

Next the base program has the ability to either input a previously manually created block pattern into the system for manipulation and grading over a defined size range, or as is more often used, create the pattern within the system and then manipulate and grade the pattern using the Pattern module.

From the Pattern Input and Manipulation the next process is to create a marker, using the previously created and graded patterns, to either accurately estimate fabric yield and usage, or send to a cutter to cut the bulk garments, which is all done seamlessly within the EchoCAD Marker module.

To assist with technical specifications the Process module can be used to easily to create a visual drawing of the garment, or a more detailed technical sketch with required measurements embedded within the drawing file.

EchoCAD is an internationally proven program, quick to learn the basics so that users are able to work efficiently in the shortest time, and encompasses all requirements of the design, pattern creation and manipulation, and cutting process for an apparel garment. There is also a fabric styling module that can be used to view specific fabrics on different items on a model.