Company Story
1982 - Founded by John Walker, Autodesk was originally named 'Marconi Interactive Systems'. Walker, an American entrepreneur, developed and marketed one of the first computer-aided design (CAD) software products, AutoCAD.
1983 - Autodesk released AutoCAD 1.0, a revolutionary CAD software that quickly gained popularity among architects, engineers, and designers.
1985 - Autodesk went public with an initial public offering (IPO) of 4.5 million shares, raising $60 million.
1987 - Autodesk introduced 3D CAD software, '3D Studio', which later became '3ds Max', a widely used animation and rendering software.
1990 - Autodesk expanded its product line with the acquisition of several companies, including Softdesk, a developer of architectural and engineering software.
1998 - Autodesk acquired Discreet Logic, a Canadian software company known for its 3D animation and visual effects software, 'Maya'.
2002 - Autodesk acquired Avid Technology's Softimage division, adding to its portfolio of 3D animation and visual effects software.
2005 - Autodesk launched its Design Review software, a free tool for reviewing and marking up 2D and 3D designs.
2007 - Autodesk made a bid to acquire SolidWorks, a 3D CAD software company, but ultimately failed.
2010 - Autodesk announced its acquisition of Algor, Inc., a provider of simulation software for engineering analysis and design.
2012 - Autodesk launched its cloud-based design software, 'Fusion 360', a 3D CAD, CAM, and CAE tool.
2014 - Autodesk announced a shift to a subscription-based business model, offering customers more flexible and affordable access to its software.
2020 - Autodesk completed its acquisition of PlanGrid, a construction productivity software company, expanding its construction technology portfolio.