Rapid product development data management education for small and medium size enterprises

This paper details changes to coursework and laboratory exercises designed to integrate data management techniques into a Computer Aided Product Development (CAPD) teaching program by addressing crucial issues arising from the past and recent course developments. The revised program sought to increase students´ knowledge of the tools and methodologies used for the management of product data generated in computer aided product development projects. In addition, a crucial undertaking to help realise the ongoing refinement and development of the CAPD course content is reported. This takes the form of a novel student survey which is conducted during the student´s first period of full time industrial employment.