Introducing tools for collaborative modelling

This paper presents the concepts and results of introducing synchronous groupware applications into a medium sized enterprise. Two groups (product development andproduct preparation) are located 200km apart and should be supported by synchronous collaboration. A concept with three stages allowed us to introduce available tools as soon as possible while developing a customised collaborative CAD system in parallel. This innovative tool is based on a commercial CAD system and directly integrates conferencing functionality. It is designed to run via small bandwith links such as ISDN. The use of those advanced collaboration technologies can result in substantial benefits for the enterprise.