CAD Standards is the language that is used to assemble data. This standards allows design information to be organized in a systematic fashion, facilitates the visual display of the information on a computer screen, and allows the information to be efficiently converted to the conventional print media of drawings. Efficient use of CAD Standards can reduce document preparation time and improve document coordination.

The standard is a system for organizing and classifying “drawing centric” building design data, including: a system for naming model files, drawing files, and drawing file layers; a system for organizing the drawing set according to drawing set hierarchy, drawing sheet layout and format, and schedule layout and format and plotting guidelines.

The goals of maintaining coherence, minimizing wasted effort in recreating design, and maximizing the effectiveness of a project team are all best served by adhering to the CAD standard.