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3D Print
Even though 3D printing has been around since the late 1980s, businesses that have a 3D printer on-site could still be considered early adopters of the technology.
Although the price of such hardware is gradually sliding, those who have invested in a printer and the requisite software and materials while the technique remained relatively niche could have the upper hand.
This was suggested by Gartner analyst Pete Basiliere, who authored a key report concerning the uptake of the technology.
Mr Basiliere explained that businesses that have adopted 3D printing and have somebody on their team who knows how to use or can learn about CAD software are well equipped for when the technology hits the mainstream.
Gartner's report, which was released this week, indicated that the price of 3D printers will fall and could be as low as £1,315 by 2016, putting them well within the reach of even small firms.
Mr Basiliere explained that it is in a company's best interests to experiment with 3D printing technology in order to enhance product design and prototyping, with the potential to develop new product lines and markets out of the technology.
The report also stated that the technique will become ever more prevalent as its availability to consumers increases via print-shop style services such as dedicated 3D printing kiosks.
"Businesses must continuously monitor advances to identify where improvements can be leveraged," said Mr Basiliere.
"We see 3D printing as a tool for empowerment, already enabling life-changing parts and products to be built in struggling countries, helping rebuild crisis-hit areas and leading to the democratisation of manufacturing."
Furthermore, the number of applications within the 3D printing sphere are now starting to be explored by businesses of all sizes. The capabilities of 3D scanners and design tools have advanced as the commercial and open-source development of additional design software tools has made the technology more practical.
It is Gartner's belief that the commercial market for 3D print applications will continue to blossom in engineering, geospatial, medical and architectural uses, as well as short-run manufacturing.
And as for the organisations working within the burgeoning 3D printing industry, their options are forever growing as they can expand into not only selling 3D printers, but offering a service bureau that prints custom items or variations of stock produce.
"From descriptions of exciting current uses in medical, manufacturing and other industries to futuristic ideas - such as using 3D printers on asteroids and the moon to create parts for spacecraft and lunar bases - the hype leads many people to think the technology is some years away when it is available now and is affordable to most enterprises," Mr Basiliere remarked.
