Creo

Creo is a family of computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), and computer-aided engineering (CAE) software developed by Parametric Technology Corporation (PTC) for product design and development. It originated as a successor to PTC's Pro/ENGINEER and CoCreate tools and was introduced in 2010 as a unified design platform.

Creo emphasizes parametric, feature-based 3D modeling and assembly design, with an option for direct modeling via Synchronous Technology, allowing flexible editing while maintaining associative relationships to the model. The software uses a common data model to manage product information and integrates with PTC Windchill for product lifecycle management.

Key components of the Creo family include Creo Parametric (the main parametric modeling tool), Creo Direct (direct modeling), Creo Simulate (structural and thermal analysis), Creo Layout (conceptual 2D layout and schematics), and Creo Piping and Cabling (routing in systems). Additional tools cover technical illustration (Creo Illustrate) and other specialized workflows. Creo files use native formats (.prt, .asm, .drw) and also support import/export of STEP, IGES, STL, OBJ, JT, and DWG/DXF.

Creo is Windows-based and is used across industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, and consumer products. It integrates with Windchill PLM and is known for its scalable toolset, broad interoperability, and ongoing development through annual releases. Criticisms include cost and the learning curve associated with its breadth.