Purpose -The aim of the paper is to propose three computer tools to create electromagnetic simulation programs: GiD, Kratos and EMANT. Design/methodology/approach -The paper presents a review of numerical methods for solving electromagnetic problems and presentation of the main features of GiD, Kratos and EMANT. Findings -The paper provides information about three computer tools to create electromagnetic simulation packages: GiD (geometrical modeling, data input, visualisation of results), Kratos (Cþþ library) and EMANT (finite element software for solving Maxwell equations).Research limitations/implications -The proposed platforms are in development and future work should be done to validate the codes for expecific problems and to provide extensive manual and tutorial information. Practical implications -The tools could be easily learnt by different user profiles: from end-users interested in simulation programs to developers of simulation packages. Originality/value -This paper offers an integrated vision of open and easily customisable tools for the demands of different users profiles.