CATIA (/kəˈtiːə/, an acronym of computer-aided three-dimensional interactive application) is a multi-platform software suite for computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), computer-aided engineering (CAE), 3D modeling and Product lifecycle management (PLM)

CATIA has Assembly, sheet metal design, and weldment features, while AutoCAD does not have these features. AutoCAD cannot calculate lifecycle management, while CATIA can. CATIA has mold design tools, while AutoCAD does not have them.

CATIA and Solidworks are owned by the same company and do many of the same things. CATIA is primarily focused on surface modeling, and tends to be used by the automotive and aerospace industry more often than not. Solidworks is 3D parts and assembly modeling.

CATIA Mechanical Designer is an advanced applications suite managing the end-to-end mechanical design process for product developers, mechanical designers and engineers. Create and complete advanced mechanical products and parts, from initial concept through final design revisions.

CATIA delivers the unique ability not only to model any product, but to do so in the context of its real-life behavior: design in the age of experience. Systems architects, engineers, designers, construction professionals and all contributors can define, imagine and shape the connected world.

Boeing has used CATIA since 1986 and, with nearly 9,000 seats, is one of the largest users in the world. The demonstrated ability of CATIA to support a broad set of Boeing requirements in an integrated fashion led to its selection as a companywide standard.