I-deas Analysis: Pre- and Post-processing introduces the beginning tools and techniques for creating finite element models and analyzing results. The traditional approach for validating a design is to build a prototype and test it. If the test reveals problems with the design, the design must be changed, and a new prototype has to be developed and tested. An alternative approach is to use finite element analysis (FEA). FEA simulates how your product will perform in a virtual environment, reduces product cost and development time by reducing prototypes, and optimizes the design.