NAFEMS Italy Conference 2026

Investment in simulation software continues to accelerate across multiple industries, driven by the need for faster design iteration, improved product performance, and reduced physical prototyping. The global simulation software market is projected to grow from approximately USD 15.0 billion in 2025 to more than USD 33.6 billion by 2032, reflecting its expanding role in modern engineering and product development workflows. Despite this growth, many organizations struggle to fully realize the expected value of simulation technologies, with adoption often constrained by a combination of operational, technical, and organizational challenges.

High software and infrastructure costs remain a significant barrier, particularly when combined with complex integration requirements across existing engineering systems. Steep learning curves and limited access to skilled personnel further complicate adoption, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises that lack dedicated simulation specialists. Recent industry surveys indicate that many engineering teams use simulation tools sporadically rather than systematically, citing time constraints, perceived misalignment with immediate business objectives, and insufficient organizational support as primary factors. As a result, simulation capabilities are frequently underutilized, workflows become fragmented, and anticipated returns on investment are not fully achieved.

This study explores a structured framework for understanding and addressing the primary challenges organizations encounter when implementing and scaling simulation software. By examining software usage patterns, workflow integration points, and organizational practices, the framework identifies key leverage points where targeted interventions can improve adoption and operational effectiveness. The analysis considers both technical dimensions, such as workflow efficiency and system interoperability, and organizational dimensions, including skills development, process ownership, and governance structures.

Preliminary observations suggest that organizations adopting a more holistic approach — treating simulation as an integrated component of engineering operations rather than a standalone capability — achieve higher levels of utilization and more consistent productivity gains. Improvements are observed not only in engineering efficiency, but also in project predictability and decision-making quality across the product development lifecycle.

The findings underscore the importance of viewing simulation software as a strategic investment that requires coordinated technical and organizational alignment. Organizations that proactively address adoption barriers are better positioned to translate simulation investments into measurable improvements in engineering performance, project delivery, and long-term operational value.

Simulation software has become central to modern engineering workflows. While adoption rates are high, organizations face ongoing challenges that reduce the effectiveness and return on investment of these tools. Understanding these challenges is critical for maximizing software value and improving engineering outcomes.

• Cost and Infrastructure: High license and hardware costs can limit access and scalability.
• Integration Complexity: Incorporating simulation software into existing workflows often requires complex IT and engineering integration.
• Skills and Training: A shortage of qualified personnel slows adoption and reduces effective use.
• Organizational Barriers: Lack of time, perceived relevance, and insufficient support hinder consistent usage and workflow optimization.

The study analyzes organizational approaches to simulation software implementation through:

1. Evaluation of usage patterns and software adoption metrics.
2. Assessment of workflow integration and operational bottlenecks.
3. Identification of organizational practices that support effective software utilization.

Preliminary findings indicate that addressing operational, technical, and organizational challenges leads to:

• Higher software utilization and adoption rates.
• More efficient engineering workflows and faster project delivery.
• Improved return on investment and measurable business value from simulation software.

Successfully leveraging simulation software requires treating it as a strategic organizational asset. By understanding and addressing the main challenges in cost, integration, skills, and organizational support, companies can maximize software utilization, enhance engineering productivity, and ensure that investments deliver tangible operational and financial benefits.