Computer Aided Design (CAD) software is one of the newest and most widely-used forms of critical system investment in the research and development units of manufacturing industries. This paper presents an application of the AHP used to examine the weights attached to and priorities of experts' perceptions. Besides, in the design of the expert questionnaire this study has mainly referred to the relevant literature, the process involved as organizations purchase products, and decision-making patterns. One hundred and twenty-six valid expert questionnaires were collected from five manufacturing industries. The model defines five main factors and 15 indicators. Moreover, the “Effect after purchasing” is the most critical factor, and “Performance between new and old software” is the first priority for all indicators according to most experts. The outcomes of this study could provide insights for academia and help 3D CAD software companies better understand the important factors influencing the purchase of software for different industries and decision makers. •Effect after purchasing was the key factor for five manufacturing industries when deciding to purchase 3D CAD software.•The performance between new and old software was the top-ranked and key indicator.•In addition to the Effect after purchasing factor, the Software license model and price factor are also important.•This study has empirically tested a new theoretical assessment framework for purchasing 3D CAD software.