Research Shows Growth in NC Software Market

 Consulting and research firm CIMdata estimates that based on end-user payments, the worldwide NC software and related services market grew by 7.2 percent in 2007 to reach a level of $1.4 billion. Moreover, the firm estimates that in 2008, these payments will increase by another 7.8 percent to reach $1.5 billion. If so, 2008 will mark the fifth consecutive year with a growth rate of 5 percent or more. From 2000 to 2003, the NC market was in recession and exhibited no growth. Since then, global economies have improved; sales of machine tools and manufacturing input have increased; and greater emphasis has been placed on efficient operation of machine tools as firms seek to enhance competitiveness; the firm says. Additionally, the overall Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) market, of which CAM is a component, has shown strong growth. CAM software purchases are directly related to all these factors, the firm says. CIMdata Chairman Alan Christman says CAM software technology has continued to evolve over the past several years amid significant mergers and acquisitions; the emergence of new manufacturing areas such as China; and greater emphasis on streamlining manufacturing operations. For more information from CIMdata, visit www.CIMdata.com.