The PMI annotation is created on the 3D CAD model, associated to edges and faces, and can be exported into neutral formats such as ISO 10303 STEP and 3D PDF. This information can then be used by a number of down-stream processes. PMI can be used to generate annotation on a traditional 2D drawing the data. However, generally, PMI is used to visualized product definition within the 3D model, thus removing the need for drawings. Some 3D model formats enable computer-aided manufacturing software to access PMI directly for CNC programming. The PMI also may be used by tolerance analysis and coordinate-measuring machine (CMM) software applications if the modeling application permits.
PMI items are often organized within annotation views. Annotation views typically view including camera/view position, selected and also the particular state of the assembly (visibility, rendering mode, sometime even position of each element of the assembly). CAD applications have different notions of PMI Views (for instance "Capture Views" and "Annotation Views" are specific to Dassault Systems CATIA, etc.).
