.jpeg)
3D printing is expected to be the next big thing in the tech world. Used by businesses for years, 3D printers create tangible 3D objects from digital models. And now, 3D printers are available in consumer versions at stores like Staples. Do everyday Americans see a use for these devices? And how many are even aware that this technology exists?
Awareness
In Ask Your Target Market’s latest survey, 31% of respondents said that they already know and understand what 3D printing is. Another 33% said that they have heard of 3D printing. And 37% said they had never heard of it before. Small business owners, students, and those in the arts industry were more likely to have heard of 3D printing.
Usefulness
3D printing has a variety of uses for business people in various industries, from creating prototypes of new products to prosthetics for medical purposes. But not all consumers see a need for such technology for personal use. Just 2% of overall respondents said they have already used 3D printing at some point. 19% said they would definitely be interested in using it. 31% said they are somewhat interested in it. 35% said they are not really interested. And 13% said they are not at all interested in 3D printing.
Relevance
16% of respondents said they think 3D printing will definitely become a mainstream practice over the next 5 years. 55% said they think 3D printing will probably become a mainstream practice in the next 5 years. 26% said it probably won’t. And just 4% said they definitely don’t think 3D printing will become a mainstream practice in that time period. Those who expressed personal interest in using 3D printing were 13% more likely to think that 3D printing will become mainstream.You can view the complete survey results in the widget below and be sure to click “Open Full Report” to take advantage of all the chart and filter options.Photo Credit: 3d printed blue tree frogs in different layer thickness from FlickrWhat do you want to know? If you need some consumer insights on a particular topic, let us know in the comments below and we’ll consider it for an upcoming survey post.
Results were collected on June 30 via AYTM’s online survey panel.
.png){kind=tracking}
.jpeg)
