There are four important new EDA user questions:
What is the design organization?
What kind of network capability is needed?
What are the security requirements of the computer network?
What computer systems are needed?
There are several considerations in buying EDA tools.
One is cost versus performance. Another consideration is the choice of licensing options. Training and support are critical factors, as is compatibility with the user's existing tools. Finally, there are concerns about ensuring a smooth transition in using the new tool.
Integrating tools into a design flow is not a simple task. Many EDA tools and data files are not compatible with each other. There are many EDA standards groups trying to improve this situation.
EDA staff comes from universities, electronic product and IC manufacturers, and design houses. Universities have close financial and technical relationships with industry.