An important factor of KBM(knowledge-based machining)is retaining the design knowledge and information already inherent in a CAD model and using that information’s power.

Several CAD software developers have created partnering programs with top CAM providers to provide seamless integration between products so that a part designed in a CAD system can be opened directly in a CAM application without the need for translation software. By forming partnerships, CAD and CAM developers work together to provide the highest level of integration between their products. With the problems and errors associated with data translated in and out of IGES or STEP formats, these partnerships completely eliminate the need for any kind of file translation.

When a CAM provider is certified by one of these partnering programs, files from the CAD partner can be opened directly in the CAM software. This direct transfer means that the design intelligence contained in a solid model is not lost in translation. Tighter CAD integration makes problems caused by data transfer a thing of the past.
Translation protocols like IGES and STEP merely transfer the part geometry, losing the features and intelligence already defined in a solid model. When design and NC programming are integrated, the design intelligence contained in a solid model is not lost in translation.