Happy birthday, DesignSpark

The website has been developed based on user feedback. Local versions available in China, France, Germany, Japan, North America and the UK, and the site has  enhanced search and filtering tools and colour-coded sections and a simpler interface to navigate and find content.

DesignSpark was launched in July 2010 as a design resource for engineers to support rapid prototyping and bring designs to market quickly. Members can access professional design software, access design support such as CAD-neutral models and share content. DesignSpark software for PCB, mechanical and electrical tools is available for professional engineers and students. RS reports that a new engineer signs up to the platform every two minutes, and that the community is close to one million members.

As part of the 10th anniversary celebrations, there will be competitions throughout the year with prizes for winners of a series of challenges for all the community, including the younger generation of engineers.

Mike Bray, group vice president of Innovation and DesignSpark, said: “When we launched DesignSpark . . .  it was to support design engineers at every level, from student and hobbyist to professional engineers, who were facing the challenges of reduced design teams and the need to complete their designs more quickly amid rising competition. . . through active and continual engagement with our community, and acting on feedback from our members, we have gone further to establish DesignSpark as a trusted online support destination for engineers everywhere.”

The new DesignSpark website is live now.