In this paper we present the state of the art in the field of computer aided innovation (CAI) from a new product development (NPD) perspective. Based on a holistic understanding of the innovation process and its support by ICT, we provide an overview of the emerging issue of CAI in the NPD field. In particular, the latest research on the concept of CAI, its categorization, potential benefits of CAI, trends in the CAI supply, and issues of CAI usage and implementation are discussed and summarized in this article. Current publications indicate that the emerging field of CAI has recently been getting more attention in the NPD area, but this research needs to integrate further the insights from other research areas in the CAI field. It must also make a better distinction between generic ICT and CAI to achieve a more specific and holistic perspective on CAI in the future.
Keywords: Computer aided innovation; New product development