IDC: 3D printer market ready for takeoff
The market for 3D printers is poised to take a “major step forward” as more companies begin to use them and the technology improves, according to new survey findings from technology research firm IDC, of Framingham.
IDC reported that 90 percent of respondents at companies that use 3D printing are “very satisfied” with them as they see the business benefits of using the devices.
Manufacturers and very large companies represent the most promise for 3D printer sales, but new pockets of opportunity will continue to emerge, IDC said.
"These printers are typically acquired for a specific creation workflow, but once in place the usage expands rapidly to other types of applications," said Keith Kmetz, vice president of hardcopy peripherals solutions and services for IDC. "The early adopters who recognized the substantial cost and time-to-market benefits … have carried the day, but it's their overall satisfaction and the ability to expand usage that will ultimately drive 3D printing to the next level."
The survey also found that:
- Features such as ease of use and service/support are nearly as important to respondents as price;
- A direct vendor-to-customer relationship is key, but that varies by company size and vertical market; and
- Current non-users show a rather tepid interest in 3D printers overall, but IDC expects that to change as the printers expand into more mainstream adoption.
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