PLM and CAD providers PTC and Dassault take different paths to spreading CAD and design software beyond hardcore engineers.

Siemens PLM will install its NX CAD software to facilitate automaker Daimler’s product development and product data management processes, ousting Dassault’s CAD technology.

Even as PLM vendors PTC and Dassault announce strong quarterly results, PTC says it will take its PLM and CAD products in a new direction.

The latest upgrade of the 3D design and collaboration software is aimed at speeding time to market and collaboration, especially with manufacturing.

Market leaders Dassault and PTC both report better-than-expected quarters as spending on PLM software grows.

Product lifecycle management software provider Dassault announces its takeover of Exalead, said to bring faster and more intelligent search capabilities to product designers and others.

The duo has been integrating Dassault’s digital manufacturing and Intercim’s MES software since 2004; Dassault will now sell the package to customers that want to license the technology from one vendor.

The PLM provider put its energy into research and development and sales initiatives that it hopes will turn the down revenue cycle around.

Just as the design software specialists were set to appear before a judge and jury to resolve a trademark dispute, the two sides reached a settlement.

Dassault and PTC see sales and earnings flounder again, but evince hope for 2010.