Onshape

Onshape is a cloud-based computer-aided design (CAD) platform for mechanical design and product development. Developed by Onshape Inc., a company founded in 2012 by Jon Hirschtick and colleagues, Onshape runs entirely in modern web browsers and via mobile apps, enabling real-time collaboration and access from multiple devices without local installation.

Key features include parametric, history-based modeling; a document-centered data model with built-in version control, branching, and permissions; real-time multi-user editing; support for parts, assemblies, and 2D drawings; and cloud-based storage with an API for automation and integration. Designs are organized into documents that can contain Part Studios (where parts are created), Assemblies, and Drawings. Collaboration is designed to be concurrent, with a persistent design history to manage changes.

Onshape is platform-agnostic and accessible across devices through web browsers and mobile applications. The cloud-native approach enables easy sharing of designs with external collaborators and centralized data management without exporting files. Onshape offers multiple plan levels, including a free option with publicly accessible documents and paid Professional and Enterprise editions that provide private documents and additional features.

In 2019, PTC announced its acquisition of Onshape, and the deal was completed as part of expanding PTC’s portfolio of product development tools. Since then, Onshape has operated as part of PTC’s CAD and cloud-enabled solutions, continuing to emphasize cloud-native collaboration and device-agnostic access within the broader suite of offerings.