Abstract: A system and method for organizing design data in a computer system so that multiple data files can be represented and manipulated as a single entity, referred to herein as a design object. Each design object is represented graphically by a symbol on a computer display screen. Associated with the multiple data files of a design object is a software design tool such as a text editor or schematic editor. The tool may be applied to work on the data files of the design object when the design object is opened. Opening a design object is typically done by positioning the screen cursor over the symbol and then using a mouse or keyboard to open the symbol and thereby the data files and tool. Data files grouped in a design object are thus much simpler to manage than separate data files that a user must first identify, retrieve and collect before applying a tool.