SAN RAFAEL, Calif., June 5, 2007 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- Autodesk, Inc. (Nasdaq: ADSK) today announced that an increasing number of software developers within the Autodesk Developer Network (ADN) -- a global network of more than 2,700 technology partners -- are creating software that enhances and extends the functionality of Autodesk's manufacturing solutions. As a result, it is easier than ever for manufacturing companies to enjoy a broad range of fully integrated and interoperable solutions that help them experience their ideas before they're built.

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"Outsourcing, mass customization and global competitiveness are reshaping the manufacturing industry and the way companies design and manufacture products," said Robert "Buzz" Kross, vice president of Autodesk Manufacturing Solutions. "By working closely with software companies around the world, we can provide solutions that address every facet of the design-through-manufacturing process. Every product that customers need to visualize, simulate and analyze for real-world performance -- early in the design process -- is available right now through Autodesk and its partner network."

Extended Functionality and Seamless Interoperability

Third-party support has been particularly strong for Autodesk Inventor software -- the foundation for digital prototyping. With its DWG TrueConnect capability, Inventor is the best choice for companies that want to add the power of 3D to existing 2D processes and incorporate analysis and simulation of real world performance into their workflow.

More than 75 vendors have participated in the Autodesk Inventor Certified Application Program, with more applying for certification every day. These vendors' products have demonstrated the highest level of interoperability with Autodesk Inventor software and adhere to Autodesk-supplied guidelines, so that customers can get the best working combination of products to meet their needs.

Autodesk Inventor Certified partners deliver software and services in a variety of areas, including among others:

-- Analysis and Simulation

-- Mold Making

-- NC Manufacturing

-- Production Engineering

-- Sheet Metal

-- Tool and Die

TechniCon Systems, Inc., an Autodesk Inventor Certified partner, develops Web-based product catalog and configuration software that allows manufacturers to market and sell complex products online. Its software is used by manufacturers concerned with mass customization across a wide spectrum of industries, including industrial components, electronics, transportation, lighting and contract furniture.

"The Autodesk Developer Network allows us to develop software that enables Inventor users to extend their CAD footprint beyond engineering and into the product sales, marketing and IT domains," said Tony Mirante, President of TechniCon. "Using Inventor to power online product configuration and digital prototyping makes it easier for manufacturers to sell complex products and allows component manufacturers to get their products specified earlier in their customer's design process."

For more information on other Inventor-compatible products, please visit: http://partnerproducts.autodesk.com/compatiblewith/inventor.asp.

About the Autodesk Developer Network

The Autodesk Developer Network is comprised of more than 2,700 technology partners around the world, whose products extend Autodesk solutions to meet the industry-specific needs of customers. New compatible applications from ADN partners are launched every day at: www.autodesk.com/partnerproducts.

About Autodesk

Autodesk, Inc., is the world leader in 2D and 3D design software for the manufacturing, building and construction, and media and entertainment markets. Since its introduction of AutoCAD software in 1982, Autodesk has developed the broadest portfolio of state-of-the-art digital prototyping solutions to help customers experience their ideas before they are real. Fortune 1000 companies rely on Autodesk for the tools to visualize, simulate and analyze real-world performance early in the design process to save time and money, enhance quality and foster innovation. For additional information about San Rafael, Calif.-based Autodesk, visit http://www.autodesk.com.

Autodesk, AutoCAD, Autodesk Inventor, DWG and Inventor are registered trademarks or trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., in the USA and/or other countries. All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective holders. Autodesk reserves the right to alter product offerings and specifications at any time without notice, and is not responsible for typographical or graphical errors that may appear in this document.

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SOURCE Autodesk, Inc.

http://www.autodesk.com