Hier erfahren Sie, wie Sie auf dem 3D-Druckmarkt erfolgreich sein können, indem Sie seine Komplexität bewältigen.

Look at where demand is shifting with your customers. There is so much new/ever-changing technology you’ll never keep up with it all. However, notice if your customers care more about prototyping or production work, the use of sustainable materials and/or practices & any spikes in demand for certain post processing techniques. Using this information, build your business around tailoring these needs

Staying ahead in 3D printing requires following market trends. This means tracking new materials like filaments and resins, and understanding demand shifts across sectors like aerospace, healthcare, and consumer goods. Be adaptable, so your product development and business strategy can cater to the evolving needs of your target market.

Technical mastery is key in 3D printing. Understand additive manufacturing principles and various technologies like FDM and SLA. Be comfortable with 3D design software and troubleshooting printing issues. Embrace continuous learning and experimentation to refine your skills and offer innovative solutions.

You should have some understanding of DfAM (design for additive manufacture) & the advantages or disadvantages each technology has. Your business will likely use multiple technologies so you cannot always apply the same logic to all of them. Someone should also be proficient in Catia or SolidWorks to help set up efficient builds & adhere to customer requirements such as part marking, hollowing, latticing or even cutting for welding.

Delivering high-quality 3D prints is critical. Clients expect precision, durability, and aesthetics. Implement rigorous quality control and invest in reliable printing equipment. Pay close attention to print settings like layer height and speed for optimal results. Prioritizing quality builds trust and fosters a reputation for excellence, leading to repeat business and referrals.

Go to trade shows not just for 3D printing but for industries/segments you want to penetrate. Often industry specific shows immerse you in 3D printing applications & can provide more fruitful business opportunities. However, 3D printing shows can help you meet likeminded professionals, keep up to date on emerging technologies & develop your knowledge.

Business acumen is key, knowing ways to depreciate machinery effectively lets your business avoid high operating costs at first. Understand economies of scale with certain technologies & operate with a small product range at first to avoid buying too many niche materials. Know who you want to sell to & what resources you need to gain sales from them. For example, if you want to serve Motorsport customers, make sure your samples resource represent industry components that have a meaningful impact on the customer. Look at investing in automation both on software & for fulfilment of customer orders to streamline production.

Having a solid business plan is crucial. Understand your customer base, define your value proposition, and develop effective marketing and sales strategies. Consider operational aspects like supply chain management and production scalability. A well-defined plan guides decision-making and ensures your venture's financial sustainability.

If you are doing Production work, read documents thoroughly before signing them. Look for warranties, indemnity clauses, payment terms & quality requirements. You will not always need a lawyer as many documents of this type use similar templating & jargon. However, if there is a large business opportunity, do not shy away from seeking legal advice for the contracts. Adhere to customer NDAs & not discuss or demonstrate customer applications in any way that can be identified as them without approval.