Computer-aided design (CAD): using software to model, refine, test and present designs, the advantages and disadvantages of CAD, and how it links to computer-aided manufacture (CAM).

A 4-mark Explain wants two developed advantages.

Advantage 1, easy to edit and refine. A CAD model can be changed quickly (sizes, shapes, colours) and saved as versions, so the designer can develop and test many variations without redrawing from scratch, speeding up iteration.

Advantage 2, accurate and shareable. CAD produces precise dimensions and 3D views that can be rotated, sent to others and used to drive manufacture (CAM), so the design is communicated and made accurately.

Other valid advantages: virtual testing (stress, fit) before making, photorealistic presentation, reuse of standard parts. Markers reward two advantages each developed with a why. Two bare statements cap the mark at two.

A 6-mark Discuss wants both sides with a judgement, applied to a small business.

Benefits: CAD speeds up designing and editing, produces accurate drawings, allows virtual testing before making, and links directly to CAM so parts are cut or printed precisely and repeatably, raising quality and consistency. It also makes professional presentations to clients easier.

Drawbacks: the software, hardware and CAM machines are expensive to buy, and staff need training, which is a big cost for a small business. There can be a steep learning curve, and over-reliance on the screen can reduce hands-on modelling skills.

A strong answer weighs these and reaches a judgement (for example, worthwhile if the business does enough work to justify the cost and trains its staff, but a large up-front risk for a very small firm). Markers reward benefits, drawbacks and a balanced conclusion. A one-sided answer caps the mark.