Driving Innovation in Design & Manufacturing: An Exclusive Interview with Mr. Parminder Singh, Head Design and Manufacturing & Media Entertainment – Autodesk India & SAARC

Mr. Parminder Singh, Head of Design & Manufacturing Business at Autodesk India & SAARC, recently sat down for an exclusive interview with DailyCADCAM. During the discussion, he provided an in-depth look at Autodesk’s extensive product portfolio and how it supports every stage of the product development lifecycle.

Mr. Parminder elaborated on how Autodesk is tackling industry challenges and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to innovation. He also shared insights on key emerging trends in design and manufacturing, strategies for bridging the skills gap with industry demands, and the role of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM). Additionally, he discussed solutions tailored for MSMEs in India, and Autodesk’s initiatives for startups, and offered valuable advice for SMBs on embracing digital transformation to remain competitive. Mr. Parminder further outlined strategies aimed at accelerating Autodesk’s growth in India.

Here’s the complete interview.

Can you share insights about your background and career journey within the CAD/CAM industry? 

As the Head of Design and Manufacturing for India and SAARC at Autodesk, my journey in the CAD/CAM industry spans over 22 years, focusing on large OEMs, MSMEs, and SMEs. My experience includes roles with companies such as Dassault Systems India, Siemens India, Verizon India (MCI Worldcom), and Tata Elxsi India. 

At the start of my career, I gained exposure to the lifecycle of product development, which has helped me connect the dots and play a vital role in my customers’ digital transformation journeys in the product development space. Through my engagement with large OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, MSMEs, and SMEs during my career, I have acquired knowledge of the processes involved in the design and manufacturing of products. This experience helps me understand and address the issues the industry is facing and develop digital transformation solutions to address those issues. 

At Autodesk and earlier in my career, I have gained exposure to Mobility and Transportation, Industrial Machinery, Aerospace and Defence, Shipbuilding, Consumer Products, and the Retail Industry. This multi-industry experience helps drive and deliver outcomes for my customers and Autodesk.  

As Autodesk leads the design and manufacturing industry by providing solutions on the cloud powered by Autodesk AI, I am excited to help customers innovate to design and make more sustainable products using our Fusion Platform. Autodesk is focused on providing solutions to our customers that will help them improve productivity, increase efficiency, and reduce their carbon footprint. 

What are the key emerging trends in the design and manufacturing sector, and how is Autodesk aligning its strategies to address these trends? 

Some of the key trends in the design and manufacturing industries are: 

1. AI and Digital Transformation: Autodesk is leveraging AI and machine learning in its software solutions to enhance design capabilities and automate repetitive tasks. This includes tools like Autodesk Fusion 360, which integrates CAD, CAM, and CAE into a single platform. 
2. Cloud as technology – Cloud technology is a key trend revolutionizing the design and manufacturing industries, enabling greater collaboration, scalability, and efficiency. By leveraging cloud-based solutions, companies can access powerful tools and resources without the need for significant upfront investments in hardware and infrastructure.  

Autodesk is at the forefront of this transformation, offering innovative cloud-based platforms like Autodesk Fusion. Fusion integrates CAD, CAM, and CAE in a single platform, allowing for seamless collaboration and real-time data sharing among team members, regardless of their location. This not only accelerates the design process but also enhances the quality of the final product. These cloud-powered tools exemplify how we are helping design and manufacturing professionals to innovate, increase efficiency, and create more sustainable products. 

3. Smart Manufacturing: Autodesk supports the adoption of smart manufacturing practices by providing advanced manufacturing software solutions that integrate with IIoT and other Industry 4.0 technologies. 
4. Additive Manufacturing: Autodesk offers solutions like Autodesk Netfabb, which supports additive manufacturing processes, enabling efficient and innovative product development. 
5. Workforce Development: Autodesk is firmly committed to helping solve the skills gap problem and prepare the next generation for the jobs of today and tomorrow. We deliver on this commitment by providing free access to our full portfolio of professional-grade software to accredited institutions. Infact, in November this year, we entered into a MoU with IIT Bombay. The collaboration will combine Autodesk’s industry expertise with IIT Bombay’s leadership in education, research, and innovation. The objective is to train and provide skills to top talent, support India’s growth, and shape the country’s technical and scientific landscape. 
6. Supply Chain and Product Lifecycle Management: Autodesk’s software solutions, such as Autodesk Fusion Lifecycle, help streamline supply chain management and product lifecycle processes, enhancing overall efficiency. 
7. Tool path generation on cloud – Autodesk is pioneering tool path generation on the cloud, revolutionizing the way manufacturers approach CNC machining and other automated processes. By utilizing cloud-based solutions like Autodesk Fusion, users can generate, simulate, and optimize tool paths in a highly efficient and collaborative environment.  

This cloud-centric approach allows for real-time data processing and sharing, enabling teams to work together seamlessly from different locations. The advanced capabilities of Fusion as platform and Data models leverage Autodesk’s powerful cloud computing infrastructure to perform complex calculations quickly, reducing the time required for tool path creation and iteration. This not only enhances productivity but also ensures higher precision and quality in the manufacturing process.  

Do you think the availability of skilled resources is keeping pace with the advanced solutions offered by software vendors, or is there a gap? 

The skills gap is a real challenge and requires public and private entities coming together to offer solutions. There needs to be collaboration between industry and academia to ensure curriculum provides students with practical skills and real-life applications.   

Autodesk is committed to broadening access to software and technology training to the future workforce of these industries, by providing its software solutions across Infrastructure, construction, water, manufacturing and entertainment for free to over 100 million students and educators across 160,000 educational institutions around the world. More than five million students in over 14,000 secondary and post-secondary schools across India use Autodesk’s software, learning how to train for in-demand skills. As a global partner of WorldSkills, Autodesk’s software was recently used by students competing in WorldSkills and IndiaSkills 2024 – a skills competition where more than 900 candidates nationally showcased their skills in 61 different categories. 

Autodesk has a strong presence in design software for manufacturing. How has the company positioned itself in the PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) market, and what is the outlook for PLM products? 

Autodesk has strategically positioned itself in the Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) market solutions that integrate with its existing design and engineering software. The key aspects of Autodesk’s positioning and the outlook for its PLM products are as follows: 

Positioning in the PLM Market: 

1. Integration with Design Tools: Autodesk’s PLM solutions, such as Autodesk Fusion 360 manage offers seamless integration with our own 2D and 3D Authoring tools like Inventor but also other CAD softwares available in the market making customers agnostic in choosing. This integration allows for a smoother transition of data across different stages of the product lifecycle, from design to manufacturing to end-of-life. 
2. Cloud-Based Solutions: Autodesk has embraced cloud technology to offer scalable and accessible PLM solutions. Cloud-based PLM provides several advantages, including lower upfront costs, easier implementation, and the ability to access data from anywhere, which is particularly beneficial for manufacturers and their engineering teams sitting across the nation 
3. User-Friendly Interface: Autodesk focuses on creating user-friendly interfaces for its PLM products, making it easier for companies to adopt and use the software without extensive training. This approach helps in reducing the barriers to entry for organizations looking to implement PLM solutions. 
4. Flexibility and Customization: Autodesk PLM solutions are highly configurable and customizable, allowing companies to tailor the software to their specific processes and requirements. This flexibility makes it suitable for a wide range of industries, from automotive to consumer goods to aerospace to Industrial Machinery (IM). 
5. Collaboration and Data Management: Autodesk PLM products emphasize collaboration and effective data management throughout the product lifecycle. Features such as version control, change management, and cross-functional collaboration tools help streamline communication and ensure that all stakeholders are working with the most up-to-date information. 

Outlook for PLM Products: 

1. Growing Adoption: The adoption of PLM solutions is expected to continue growing as more companies recognize the importance of managing the entire product lifecycle efficiently. The need for better collaboration, faster time-to-market, and improved product quality will drive this growth. 
2. Emphasis on Sustainability: With increasing focus on sustainability, PLM solutions will play a crucial role in helping companies manage their products’ environmental impact. Autodesk’s commitment to sustainability aligns well with this trend, and its PLM tools are likely to incorporate more features aimed at supporting sustainable practices. 
3. Integration with Emerging Technologies: The future of PLM will see deeper integration with emerging technologies such as IoT (Internet of Things), AI (Artificial Intelligence), and advanced analytics. These technologies will enhance the capabilities of PLM solutions, providing more insights and automation throughout the product lifecycle. 
4. Enhanced Collaboration Tools: As remote and hybrid work environments become more common, the demand for robust collaboration tools within PLM systems will increase. Autodesk is likely to continue enhancing its collaboration features to meet this demand. 
5. Industry-Specific Solutions: Tailored solutions can provide enhanced value and more effectively address the specific challenges faced by various industries. Autodesk is continuously evaluating opportunities to bring in new technology, modifications and upgrades that will help our customers design and make better products.  
6. Continuous Improvement and Innovation: Autodesk’s ongoing investment in research and development will lead to continuous improvements and innovations in its PLM offerings. Regular updates and new features will keep the products competitive and aligned with market needs. 

Overall, Autodesk’s strong foundation in design and engineering software, combined with its strategic focus on cloud-based, user-friendly, and customizable PLM solutions, positions the company well in the PLM market. The outlook for Autodesk’s PLM products is positive, with opportunities for growth driven by increasing adoption, technological advancements, and a focus on sustainability. 

Fusion has seen adoption by MSMEs, students, makers, and startups. How do you see its adaptability and growth trajectory in India?  

Fusion has seen significant adoption among MSMEs, students, makers, and startups in India. In a market where manufacturers are using multiple products to address different requirements, Autodesk Fusion, as a cloud technology platform powered by Autodesk AI, is uniquely positioned to enable engineers and innovators to perform all the tasks, end to end on the same platform.  As a result, the designs are more dynamic, material and design efficient and can be produced much faster. This trend also aligns with the broader movement towards digital transformation in the manufacturing and design sectors. The adaptability and growth trajectory of Fusion in India can be attributed to several factors: 

1. Accessibility and Affordability: Fusion offers a solution for businesses and educational institutions, which encompasses the ability to design and manufacture on a same platform generating the best ROI for customers in any segment. 
2. Comprehensive Features: The software provides a wide range of tools for 3D design, simulation, and manufacturing in one package, which are essential for innovation and product development. 
3. Cloud-Based Platform: Fusion cloud-based nature allows for easy collaboration and access from anywhere, which is particularly beneficial for remote work and distributed teams. 
4. Educational Initiatives: Autodesk’s commitment to education ensures that students and educators have access to the latest tools and resources, fostering a new generation of skilled users. 

I would like to share a fantastic example of a startup in the EV space. Vayve Mobility, India’s first solar electric car company. This startup in urban mobility transformed its electric car development by leveraging our manufacturing tools for modeling, design and simulation. Our collaboration tools allowed Vayve’s designers to work more seamlessly, fueling creativity and efficiency through the design process. With real-time feedback and agile workflows, Vayve accelerated its product development, enabling them to meet their sustainability goals of making EVs more affordable and accessible.    

Rivian, the maker of fully electric trucks, SUVs and delivery vans, used Autodesk Fusion for rapid prototyping in the early design phase, along with our other tools (VRED and Alias) for concept design for rapid iteration. Other OEMs are using technology, including our tools, to transition to EV, as well, including Porsche, GM, Honda. 

How Autodesk supports Startups in India? 

 Autodesk offers a robust support system for startups in India through its Autodesk for Startups program. The program aims to empower startups by equipping them with the necessary resources to innovate, design, and bring their products to market faster. Additionally, Autodesk provides mentorship, training, and networking opportunities, helping startups to connect with industry experts and potential investors. Some key aspects of this support include: 

1. Technology Access: Autodesk provides startups with access to its software suite, including Fusion, enabling them to leverage advanced tools for design and manufacturing. 
2. Collaboration and Networking: Autodesk facilitates collaboration and networking opportunities through events, workshops, and partnerships, helping startups connect with industry experts and potential investors. 
3. Sustainability Initiatives: Autodesk’s sustainability programs align with global efforts to promote environmentally friendly practices, supporting startups in developing sustainable products and solutions. 
4. Educational Programs: Through educational programs and partnerships with academic institutions, Autodesk helps startups gain the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the competitive market. 

What does digital transformation mean for the evolving skills required in the industry? 

Digital transformation is reshaping industries by integrating digital technologies into all areas of business, fundamentally changing how organizations operate and deliver value to customers. This shift has profound implications for the skills required in the industry. Here are some key aspects of how digital transformation is influencing the evolving skills landscape: 

1. Technical Proficiency: 

• Software and Tools: Proficiency in advanced software tools (e.g., CAD, CAM, CAE software like Autodesk Fusion) is becoming essential. Employees need to be adept at using these tools for design, simulation, and manufacturing processes. 
• Data Analytics: Skills in data analysis and interpretation are crucial as data-driven decision-making becomes more prevalent.  
• Understanding Digital Systems: A broad understanding of digital systems, including cloud computing, IoT (Internet of Things), and AI (Artificial Intelligence), is increasingly important. 
• Cybersecurity Awareness: As digital systems become more integrated, awareness and knowledge of cybersecurity practices are vital to protect sensitive information and maintain system integrity. 

2. Soft Skills: 

• Adaptability and Continuous Learning: The rapid pace of technological change requires a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability. Employees must be willing to upskill and reskill regularly. 
• Collaboration and Communication: Digital transformation often involves cross-functional teams and collaboration across different geographies. Strong communication and teamwork skills are essential. 

3. Project Management: 

• Agile Methodologies: Familiarity with agile project management methodologies helps in managing projects more efficiently in a fast-paced digital environment. 
• Change Management: Skills in change management are important to help organizations and teams navigate the transitions brought about by digital transformation. 

Digital transformation is driving a significant shift in the skills required across various industries. To remain competitive and thrive in this evolving landscape, individuals and organizations must invest in developing these new skills. Continuous learning, adaptability, and a proactive approach to embracing new technologies are essential for success in the digital age. 

With the growing manufacturing sector in India, many companies are aiming for overseas opportunities. What advice would you give SMBs on adopting digital transformation to stay competitive? 

As the manufacturing sector in India continues to grow and companies aim for overseas opportunities, adopting digital transformation becomes crucial for staying competitive. Here are some key pieces of advice for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) looking to embrace digital transformation: 

1. Assess and Define Goals: 

• Identify Objectives: Clearly define what you aim to achieve with digital transformation. This could include improving operational efficiency, enhancing product quality, reducing costs, or expanding market reach. 
• Conduct a Digital Readiness Assessment: Evaluate your current digital capabilities and identify gaps that need to be addressed. 
• Adopt Advanced Manufacturing Technologies: Implement technologies such as CAD/CAM software, 3D printing, IoT, and automation to streamline production processes and enhance precision. 
• Leverage Cloud Computing: Use cloud-based platforms for better collaboration, data storage, and access to advanced analytics and computing power. 

2. Focus on Skill Development: 

• Train Employees: Provide training and upskilling opportunities for your workforce to ensure they are proficient in using new digital tools and technologies. 
• Foster a Culture of Continuous Learning: Encourage a mindset of continuous improvement and learning within your organization. 

3. Innovate and Differentiate: 

• Focus on R&D: Invest in research and development to create innovative products that meet evolving customer needs and stand out in the market. 
• Engage with Technology Partners: Collaborate with technology providers, consultants, and industry experts to gain access to the latest innovations and best practices. 
• Participate in Industry Networks: Join industry associations and networks to stay updated on trends, share knowledge, and explore business opportunities. 

 Adopting digital transformation is essential for SMBs in the manufacturing sector to stay competitive and seize overseas opportunities. By investing in the right technologies, enhancing data management, focusing on skill development, optimizing operations, and fostering innovation, SMBs can position themselves for growth and success in the global market. 

What advancements have you observed in integrating AI into mechanical engineering, particularly for streamlining workflows and solving challenges related to complex product designs? And Autodesk has long been a pioneer in AI-driven tools like Generative Design. How is Autodesk advancing its AI offerings, and do you believe AI and data-driven decision-making will replace traditional methods or redefine the role of engineers? 

When it comes to AI, we’re seeing users leverage AI to iterate on concepts faster, and determine best exterior designs based on performance needs. AI can help come up with the best solutions for manufacturability, parts consolidation, and material usage in vehicles based on performance, cost and sustainability targets. We’re already seeing AI-driven design tools gain mass acceptance as they can help conceptualize these possibilities and streamline the design process by automating repetitive tasks. Also, AI can enhance decision-making across the factory.  

Speaking of AI from the lens of design, I feel, in the short term, AI will enable companies and governments to make better decisions earlier in the process. In the long-term, we believe that AI can augment creative exploration and problem-solving, automate tedious and repetitive work and analyse project data to offer predictive insights –making it easier for users to innovate without needing extensive technical skills. For example, designers can now evaluate multiple options earlier on in the design process with Autodesk’s design and make platform rather than prototyping all, manufacturers can now generate tool path from drawings, designers can automatically constraint sketches using AI. 

What are your thoughts on the rise of the electric vehicle market and its impact on the industry? 

The Electric Vehicle (EV) market in India has been experiencing rapid growth and is poised for substantial expansion in the coming years. As per the data from ibef.org, the Indian EV market is forecasted to expand from US$ 3.21 billion in 2022 to US$ 113.99 billion by 2029, with a 66.52% CAGR. India is on track to become the largest EV market by 2030, with rise in investment over the next 8-10 years.  

Government Initiatives and Policies 

The Indian Government has been proactive in promoting the adoption of EVs through a series of initiatives and policies aimed at achieving its mission of 30% electric mobility by 2030. Key measures include: 

1. Customs Duty Exemption: The budget announced customs duty exemption on the import of capital goods and machinery required for the manufacture of lithium-ion batteries, which are crucial for powering EVs. 
2. FAME II Scheme: Commenced on 1st April 2019, with a total budgetary support of US$ 1.43 billion (Rs. 10,000 crore), FAME II primarily targets the electrification of public and shared transportation. Under this scheme, 30% of the procurement of manufactured or processed products must come from SMEs. 
3. Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme: This scheme, with a budget of US$ 60.18 million (Rs. 500 crore), will be operational from April 1 to July 31, 2024. It aims to enhance green mobility and stimulate electric vehicle manufacturing in the country, with further measures planned to promote this sector. 
4. Technological Innovations – Technology is playing a crucial role in enabling the transition to EVs. Innovations across various fields and domains have made EVs more efficient and viable. Key technological advancements include: 

• Battery Technology: The shift from liquid to solid-state batteries offers higher energy density, improving the range and safety of EVs. 
• Charging Infrastructure: The development of DC fast charging stations significantly reduces charging times, making EVs more convenient for users. 
• Factory Digitization: The digitization of factory design and operations enhances manufacturing efficiency and reduces costs.  

Challenges and Opportunities – Despite the promising growth, the Indian EV market faces several challenges: 

• Growth Capital: Providing accessible growth capital to late-stage startups remains a significant hurdle. 
• Attracting Foreign Manufacturers: Efforts are needed to attract foreign EV manufacturers to invest in the Indian market. 

However, these challenges also present opportunities for growth, innovation, and leadership in the global EV landscape. By addressing these issues, India can further solidify its position as a leader in the electric vehicle market. 

What strategies have you implemented to drive Autodesk’s growth in India? 

Autodesk aims to play a pivotal role in helping the Indian manufacturing industry achieve its goal of contributing 25% to the GDP, as outlined in the Viksit Bharat mission. As technology evolves at a rapid pace, it is imperative for professionals to stay in sync with the latest advancements. To achieve this, Autodesk is committed to democratizing digitalization in India, which can only be realized with a skilled workforce. With this intention, we have forged partnerships at the government level to train and educate the workforce. These partnerships create an ecosystem that enables continuous learning and adaptation, ensuring that India remains at the forefront of technological innovation, and are crucial to help drive a shift in the mindset of businesses to adopt a design-first approach. 

Autodesk aims to support businesses that are nurturing in startup Hubs and incubation centres with its technology. New age companies in EVs can now easily complete their entire workflows on single platform like Autodesk Fusion. Incubation centres can become hubs for providing this infrastructure to such companies supporting together with Autodesk.  

Earlier this year, we signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Tamil Nadu government to create a sustainable and competitive manufacturing landscape in the state by empowering local talent with the required technology skills to drive digital innovation. This initiative is designed to enhance startup competition within the industrial ecosystem. Autodesk has also partnered with the Maharashtra government to provide advanced design technology to local manufacturing businesses.   

Autodesk is investing in the establishment of Research and Development (R&D) centres that focus on developing innovative solutions for the global market. We believe these centres play a crucial role in advancing design and make technology and driving digital transformation across various industries. Autodesk also engages with industry associations and government institutions to promote the adoption of advanced technologies and best practices in the Indian market.   

Parminder Singh is the Country Head for Autodesk’s Design & Manufacturing and Media and
Entertainment verticals in India & SAARC. With over two decades of experience spanning across the
manufacturing, consumer packaged goods (CPG), automotive, aerospace, and telecommunications
sectors, Parminder has been instrumental in driving digital transformation for enterprise organizations.
His expertise lies in creating value propositions, leading teams, and devising strategies for customer win–
backs, stakeholder management, and building partnerships with CXOs across India.

 I extend my gratitude to Mr. Parminder Singh. for the insightful discussion. Also, thanks to Autodesk PR Partner Maftec Digital for organizing this discussion. If you have any questions for him or DailyCADCAM, please feel free to leave a comment below or contact us via email at sachin@dailycadcam.com. We are more than happy to provide answers and further information. – Sachin R. Nalawade | Editor DailyCADCAM

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