The appearance and form of piping and instrumentation diagrams (PIDs) have changed little over time, despite decades of technology improvements. A P&IDcreate 60 years ago on the drawing board, using ink pens on linen sheets, describes a process the same way as one created today using modern computer-aided design (CAD) software. P&ID continue to be fundamental references for any process facility.
This article discusses what makes a good P&ID, and how technology can improve its quality, usability and effectiveness.