The vast majority of new products these days are designed in dedicated virtual environments, using computer aided design (CAD) tools and applications. CAD software comes in a wide range of different titles, which provide varying degrees of complexity to designers and software users. CAD applications vary from simple and freely available programs, to complex and expensive commercial titles that can deal with practically any design task you can imagine. Most of the larger titles are available to work with all the major computer operating systems, including the latest Windows and Apple Macintosh titles. Some of the smaller and more specialised CAD applications may only be able to work with a single operating system, often depending on the preferences of the software authors and creators.

New home-based products like side awnings and shade structures are likely to be designed in a computer environment months before they ever become available for sale through you local builder or hardware retailer.

An awning (Markisen) is an overhang structure complete with a dedicated frame and covering, making them the ideal product for outdoor living in all kinds of weather conditions. A lot of new awning designs utilise retractable control features, allowing individual awning arms to be manipulated depending on the weather. These awnings are more complex than the traditional awning coverings often seen over windows and porches, and require a longer design and development phase by awning manufacturers. Retractable awnings often utilise manual awning controls, and some advanced models have automated systems with remote control functionality. Some of the different kinds of retractable awnings on the market include lateral arm awnings, side awnings, and drop arm awnings; all of which are able to manipulate the amount of shade for patio or awning structures.

The schematics of the controls and the geometries of the awning structures themsleves are regularly designed in a CAD system, using commercial operating systems to run the programs and store any related documentation. Windows and Apple Macintosh operating systems still have a monopoly in both the home and business markets, although more people all the time are becoming aware of Linux and other open source alternatives. The monopoly that is still enjoyed by the two major operating systems means that applications are still more readily available for these systems than for any others. With access to a professional CAD application and an operating system to run it on, awning designers are likely to come up with even more innovative designs in future years.