# Best Additive Manufacturing Software - Page 3 *By [Daniel Rivera](https://research.g2.com/insights/author/daniel-rivera)* Additive manufacturing software enables the design-to-production process for layer-based fabrication, transforming digital models into physical parts through controlled material deposition. Acting as the intermediary between CAD modeling tools and 3D printers, the software converts geometric data into printer-readable instructions that define how each layer is built. This digital-to-physical translation ensures dimensional accuracy, optimal orientation, and material efficiency throughout the printing process. Core capabilities include slicing and build preparation, support generation for overhanging structures, and lattice or infill optimization to balance part strength and weight. Advanced additive manufacturing software also offers print simulation, topology optimization, and automated error detection, enabling the reduction of waste and improvement in print success rates. Seamless integration with 3D design and CAD environments allows users to streamline data transfer, while printer calibration and material management tools ensure compatibility across hardware and filament types. These features enable consistent, high-quality results across prototypes, end-use parts, and production-grade components. Preview and simulation functionalities allow proactive identification of potential issues before initiating the printing process. Additive manufacturing software is used across industries that rely on precision prototyping and batch production, including aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and consumer goods. Engineers, designers, and researchers use it to accelerate iteration, reduce lead times, and bring complex geometries to life that traditional subtractive methods cannot achieve. It often integrates or works alongside [general-purpose CAD software](https://www.g2.com/categories/general-purpose-cad) and [3D modeling software](https://www.g2.com/categories/3d-modeling) to support a complete digital manufacturing workflow. From architects refining prototypes to engineers perfecting components to healthcare workers making custom medical models, the software's versatility is unmatched. Additive manufacturing, also referred to as general 3D printing, often works alongside 3D design or CAD software. However, our list is specific for those solutions that not only drive the printers but also manufacture and prep tools to handle the build instructions and printers within the manufacturing environment. To qualify for inclusion in the Additive Manufacturing category, a product must: - Translate 3D models into printable instructions for 3D printers - Repair and edit various model formats (ie, STL, 3MF, and OBJ) files - Optimize additive production processes to support commercial or industrial 3D printing operations - Integrate with 3D printers, material profiles, and offer features for preprocessing workflows - Etc. ## How Many Additive Manufacturing Software Products Does G2 Track? **Total Products under this Category:** 61 ### Category Stats (May 2026) - **Average Rating**: 4.32/5 (↑0.02 vs Apr 2026) - **New Reviews This Quarter**: 22 - **Buyer Segments**: Small-Business 67% │ Mid-Market 18% │ Enterprise 15% - **Top Trending Product**: 3DXpert (+0.083) *Last updated: May 18, 2026* ## How Does G2 Rank Additive Manufacturing Software Products? **Why You Can Trust G2's Software Rankings:** - 30 Analysts and Data Experts - 3,900+ Authentic Reviews - 61+ Products - Unbiased Rankings G2's software rankings are built on verified user reviews, rigorous moderation, and a consistent research methodology maintained by a team of analysts and data experts. Each product is measured using the same transparent criteria, with no paid placement or vendor influence. While reviews reflect real user experiences, which can be subjective, they offer valuable insight into how software performs in the hands of professionals. Together, these inputs power the G2 Score, a standardized way to compare tools within every category. ## Which Additive Manufacturing Software Is Best for Your Use Case? - **Leader:** [Designcenter NX](https://www.g2.com/products/designcenter-nx/reviews) - **Easiest to Use:** [Autodesk Fusion](https://www.g2.com/products/autodesk-fusion/reviews) - **Top Trending:** [Designcenter Solid Edge](https://www.g2.com/products/designcenter-solid-edge/reviews) - **Best Free Software:** [Autodesk Fusion](https://www.g2.com/products/autodesk-fusion/reviews) ## What Are the Top-Rated Additive Manufacturing Software Products in 2026? ### 1. [Divergent](https://www.g2.com/products/divergent/reviews) Replaces conventional vehicle architecture, tooling and related factory assets with a proprietary, patented, end-to-end system for vehicle design and engineering, volume manufacturing and assembly. Creates a new architecture based on computer-driven optimization and additive manufacturing that evolves space frame into a significantly lighter, higher performance, safer, and lower cost vehicle structure. Automates the design, manufacture and assembly of complex structures using Non-Design Specific Software, Additive Manufacturing and Robotic Assembly the same system can be used for a wide-range of automotive, aerospace and other applications. Dramatically improves the profitability and cash flow of the worldlargest manufacturing industries. Radically reduces lifecycle environmental impact by optimizing total vehicle cradle-to-cradle efficiency. Drives convergence of software and hardware product cycles for increased innovation **Who Is the Company Behind Divergent?** - **Seller:** [Divergent 3D](https://www.g2.com/sellers/divergent-3d) - **Year Founded:** 2014 - **HQ Location:** Torrance, California, United States - **Twitter:** @Divergent3D (4,178 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/divergent3d/ (323 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 2. [KISSlicer](https://www.g2.com/products/kisslicer/reviews) KISSlicer is a powerful, easy-to-use, and fast cross-platform app that slices STL files into printer-ready G-code files. **Average Rating:** 5.0/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 1 **Who Is the Company Behind KISSlicer?** - **Seller:** [KISSlicer](https://www.g2.com/sellers/kisslicer) - **HQ Location:** N/A - **Twitter:** @KISSlicerTeam (64 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business ### 3. [Layers](https://www.g2.com/products/layers-app-layers/reviews) Layers is a platform designed to help you manage your 3D printing business. You can easily create your online shop and access it with your sub-domain or your own domain name. Using this shop, your customers can upload their 3D models, get price quotations, and place orders. **Who Is the Company Behind Layers?** - **Seller:** [layers.app](https://www.g2.com/sellers/layers-app) - **Year Founded:** 2020 - **HQ Location:** Vancouver, CA - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/layers-app/ (7 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 100% Mid-Market #### What Are Layers's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - 3D Modeling (1 reviews) - Sharing (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Export Issues (1 reviews) - Integration Issues (1 reviews) ### 4. [NIRO 3D](https://www.g2.com/products/niro-3d/reviews) NIRO 3D is a Czech e-commerce platform for custom 3D-printed products. It features a live 3D configurator where customers can pick a product, choose from 19+ colors and materials, see real-time pricing, and place an order in minutes. Every item is printed on demand and ships within 48 hours. The platform offers 70+ products across categories including home decor, desk accessories, tool organizers, cosplay props, and personalized gifts. Businesses can also use NIRO 3D for custom prototyping, branded merchandise, and promotional items with bulk pricing. **Who Is the Company Behind NIRO 3D?** - **Seller:** [Niro3D](https://www.g2.com/sellers/niro3d) - **HQ Location:** N/A - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 5. [Polar Cloud](https://www.g2.com/products/polar-cloud/reviews) The Polar Cloud is a cloud software application that helps K-12 schools manage their 3D printers. This includes inventory tracking, design software integration, print notifications, STEAM curricula, and a dashboard for managing students and their print requests. **Average Rating:** 4.8/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 2 **Who Is the Company Behind Polar Cloud?** - **Seller:** [Polar3D](https://www.g2.com/sellers/polar3d) - **HQ Location:** N/A - **Twitter:** @Polar3D (1,438 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 50% Mid-Market, 50% Small-Business #### What Are Polar Cloud's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Customer Support (2 reviews) - Collaboration (1 reviews) - Ease of Use (1 reviews) - Easy Integrations (1 reviews) - Usage Frequency (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Difficult Learning (1 reviews) - Internet Connectivity (1 reviews) - Learning Difficulty (1 reviews) ### 6. [PrismSlicer](https://www.g2.com/products/prismslicer/reviews) Additive Appearance specializes in developing advanced full-color 3D printing slicer software, primarily for material-jetting printers. Our cutting-edge solution, PrismSlicer, redefines how color, translucency, and texture are controlled in 3D printing. Our Mission We aim to make full-color 3D printing as precise and accessible as 2D printing, enabling creators to produce vibrant, highly detailed models that stay true to their vision. Built on years of research in Computer Graphics, our next-generation slicer maximizes control over print appearance, unlocking new possibilities for both current and future printer hardware. Unique Features Complex Assemblies – Combine single-color, gradients, and textured objects in a single print. Photorealistic Preview Renderings – Reliable visualizations for high-impact presentations. Full-Color Print Optimization – Advanced tools for precise color accuracy. Material Gradient Editor – Simplifies gradient management for seamless color transitions. Slices Preview – Provides detailed print slices for enhanced quality checks. Partner with Us Beyond software development, we offer optical measurement services to ensure that materials and prints achieve peak performance. Whether optimizing translucency, enhancing color accuracy, or refining visual fidelity, our solutions elevate full-color 3D printing from a technical challenge to an art form, bringing ideas to life with unmatched realism and precision. **Who Is the Company Behind PrismSlicer?** - **Seller:** [Additive Appearance](https://www.g2.com/sellers/additive-appearance) - **Year Founded:** 2023 - **HQ Location:** Prague 1, CZ - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/additiveappearance/ (7 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 7. [Qlone](https://www.g2.com/products/qlone/reviews) Qlone, a seamless integration with some of the world's leading 3D platforms for printing, sharing and selling 3D models. **Average Rating:** 3.0/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 1 **How Do G2 Users Rate Qlone?** - **3MF Compatible:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Inetgrated 3D Modeling:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.4/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Qlone?** - **Seller:** [EyeCue Vision Technologies LTD.](https://www.g2.com/sellers/eyecue-vision-technologies-ltd) - **HQ Location:** N/A - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business ### 8. [REALvision Pro](https://www.g2.com/products/realvision-pro/reviews) Elevate your 3D printing results with REALvision Pro, the ONLY software that includes expert consultancy and actually usable features. REALvision Pro is the slicer software for 3D printers. Used by resellers, production companies, manufacturers, etc. - REALvision Pro has proven itself to be the slicer software providing high-quality expert results no matter your level of expertise. REALvision pro differentiates by having true expert consultancy service, an intuitive and usable interface, and improving your 3D printer by providing expert print results. Also, with frequent updates and user-driven development, you can trust that your slicer software will always be up-to-date and working at its best. We don’t want you to settle for anything less than the best. **Who Is the Company Behind REALvision Pro?** - **Seller:** [Create it REAL](https://www.g2.com/sellers/create-it-real) - **Year Founded:** 2009 - **HQ Location:** Aalborg, DK - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/create-it-real (25 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 9. [Selfcad software](https://www.g2.com/products/selfcad-software/reviews) Problem: Professional level 3D software is hard to learn, while entry level software is laggy and limited. And both of them require multiple programs to get the 3D printing job done. The Solution SelfCAD offers professional level capabilities, is easy to learn, fast, and does not require any additional programs to get a 3D printing job done. SelfCAD is doing the same thing for the 3D CAD industry that Wix did for the Web design industry and Canva did for the graphic design industry. Target Markets Intermediate 3D modeling users, B2C, and B2B2C Founders Aaron Breuer- Founder & President George Weinberger CEO **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 2 **How Do G2 Users Rate Selfcad software?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Selfcad software?** - **Seller:** [SternHoldings](https://www.g2.com/sellers/sternholdings) - **Year Founded:** 2016 - **HQ Location:** New York, US - **Twitter:** @SelfCAD (602 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/selfcad (26 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business ### 10. [TEEXMA for Additive Manufacturing](https://www.g2.com/products/teexma-for-additive-manufacturing/reviews) **Who Is the Company Behind TEEXMA for Additive Manufacturing?** - **Seller:** [BASSETTI](https://www.g2.com/sellers/bassetti) - **Year Founded:** 1992 - **HQ Location:** Grenoble, FR - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/bassetti (228 employees on LinkedIn®) ### 11. [VoxelDance Additive](https://www.g2.com/products/voxeldance-additive/reviews) VoxelDance Additive is a powerful 3D printing build preparation software for mainstream 3D printing applications such as prototypes, shoe molds, resin/metal dentistry, jewelry, healthcare, education, industrial molds, consumer products, etc. It's compatible with SLM, SLA, DLP, and SLS 3D printing technologies. Thanks to the optimized VDK geometry engine and highly streamlined workflow, users can quickly achieve 3D printing build preparation, and the production efficiency and printing success rate have also been significantly improved. **Who Is the Company Behind VoxelDance Additive?** - **Seller:** [VoxelDance](https://www.g2.com/sellers/voxeldance) - **Year Founded:** 2019 - **HQ Location:** Shanghai, CN - **LinkedIn® Page:** http://www.linkedin.com/company/voxeldance (14 employees on LinkedIn®) ## What Is Additive Manufacturing Software? [CAD & PLM Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/cad-plm) ## What Software Categories Are Similar to Additive Manufacturing Software? - [General-Purpose CAD Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/general-purpose-cad) - [Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD) Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/mechanical-computer-aided-design-mcad) - [Simulation & CAE Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/simulation-cae) --- ## How Do You Choose the Right Additive Manufacturing Software? ### What You Should Know About 3D Printing Software ### What is 3D Printing Software? 3D printing software, also known as a 3D printing slicer, is an application that converts 3D files into a language a printer can interpret. Once it understands the information, it can create real-life objects.  3D printing, or additive manufacturing, is a process in which materials are deposited, layer by layer, to produce a component. 3D printing slicers convert 3D models into a G-code that printers need to comprehend to create the object. The G-code file contains a set of instructions that tells the 3D printer what to do and how to do it. Businesses in a variety of different fields use this software. However, it’s most commonly found in industrial fields for constructing parts of machines, objects, and buildings. ### What are the common features of 3D printing software? The following features are commonly found in 3D printing software solutions. - **3D modeling software integration:** 3D printers and 3D modeling solutions have to learn each other’s language to get the job done.  - **Printer support:** 3D printing software should work well with a number of different 3D printers. It’s important to make sure this software integrates with the 3D printer used for the final parts. - **Preprint simulations:** Some 3D printers can give users realistic preprint simulations. The users get to see the exact actions a 3D printer takes to create their object.  - **Identify issues before printing:** By running a preprint simulation, users can extract information like exact speeds and sequences. This means that there’s no need to go through with a print job until users can verify it will be successful. ### Types of 3D printing software  There are various types of 3D printing software available, each serving different purposes in the 3D printing workflow. The diversity ensures that users can choose a tool that aligns with their skill level, preferences, and business goals. - [**General-Purpose CAD Software**](https://www.g2.com/categories/general-purpose-cad) **:** Known as computer-aided design (CAD), this type of software allows users to manipulate the sizing, geometry, features, and details of the object in printing.  - **Slicing software:** Slicing software takes the finished model and slices it into instructional parts or G-code for the 3D printer to build layer by layer. These are essential for transmitting printing instructions to the printer. - **Integrated software:** Some software, combines both modeling and slicing capabilities.  - **Cloud-based solutions:** Cloud-based CAD solutions save machines with lower processing power. These tools allow collaborative design in the cloud, accessible from various devices. However, how often the servers are operational is an important consideration as it affects the availability of the CAD services. If servers go down, users may face disruptions in accessing, saving, and collaborating on design projects. - **Specialized software for industries:** Certain 3D modeling software caters to specific industries. For example, FreeCAD specializes in architecture modeling, Materialize MAGICS is best used for industrial purposes, and SOLIDWORKS is designed to create machine parts. While not limiting the use of a 3D printer, these tools may have features specific to their respective industries. ### Benefits of using 3D printing software Depending on the product’s specific feature set, 3D printing software offers numerous benefits. - **Enables decentralization:** This software allows companies to print separate parts of a product. In certain cases, businesses can use 3D printers to make certain parts onsite without the need to order from a third party. - **Reduces production costs:** Because 3D printing users can print parts and complete products onsite, companies don’t need to spend money to ship those parts to their location from a manufacturing plant.  - **Reduces lead time:** Besides cost reduction, there is also a reduction in the lead time for manufacturing the product. The technology allows for small batches and in-house manufacturing, reducing the dependency on external supply chains. - **Rapid prototyping:** Whether it’s due to product flaws or simply a better design idea, products inevitably undergo many changes. 3D printing enables users to create complex geometries and print their 3D model at any point in the design process so that they always have a physical reference for their designs. Iterations are less of a hassle to make without the need for expensive molds or tools. - **Advanced warehousing:** Because 3D printing works quickly, warehouses can print products or parts of products on demand. Businesses will no longer face an excess of inventory as they did in the past. - **Reduces wastage:** Additive manufacturing processes are suited for high-speed and low-volume production. Traditional manufacturing techniques result in a plethora of wasted materials. 3D printing only uses the material needed to create the final product in the product development process—no more or less. Being able to reuse materials also lessens waste. - **Improves product quality:** Traditional or subtractive manufacturing techniques sometimes lead to poor quality if the elements for the final product don’t work well together. 3D printing software allows users to print their products step-by-step, which ensures a higher design quality. ### Who uses 3D printing software? Various professionals and enthusiasts use 3D printing software across different industries. Here are some common users: - **Healthcare:** The healthcare sector uses 3D printing software extensively. It helps create customized prosthetics and implants at lower costs. Scientists are also experimenting with 3D bioprinting, which involves layering cells in detailed patterns to create living parts. This method can help print tissues and organs. In dentistry, doctors are printing dentures, surgical guides, and transparent aligners. - **Aerospace:** 3D printing tools are used to print complex aircraft parts for both long-term and short-run productions. The biggest advantage is that it takes up much less volume than traditional manufacturing processes. This cuts down on air drag, fuel consumption, and environmental damage.  - **Automotive:** With its rapid prototyping, 3D printing software lets automobile manufacturers turn a vision into a proof of concept. They can use the software for low-volume and on-demand production of spare parts. 3D printing is faster, more efficient, and less expensive. It allows companies to produce components in-house. This also saves costs associated with outsourcing. - **Defense and military:** The defense and military sectors leverage 3D printing software for various purposes, including the rapid prototyping of equipment, production of spare parts, and development of specialized components. This technology provides flexibility in adapting to evolving defense needs, reducing dependency on traditional supply chains, and enabling on-site production of critical components. - **Educational institutions:** Schools and universities use 3D printing software for educational purposes, helping students understand complex concepts and encouraging creativity and innovation. This application allows students to engage in hands-on learning experiences, turning theoretical knowledge into practical skills. - **Engineers and architects:** Professionals in engineering and architecture use 3D printing software to create prototypes and models for visualizing designs and testing functionality. This technology aids in the development and refinement of projects, allowing for a better understanding of spatial relationships and design intricacies. - **Artists and designers:** Artists and designers utilize 3D printing software to bring their creative ideas to life. From crafting intricate jewelry to sculpting unique pieces, this technology allows artists to explore new forms of expression and push the boundaries of traditional artistry. - **Hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts:** Many individuals, such as hobbyists and do-it-yourself (DIY) enthusiasts, use 3D printing software for personal projects. This includes creating custom items, prototypes, or parts for various applications. The accessibility of 3D printing technology empowers individuals to turn their ideas into tangible objects without the need for extensive manufacturing resources. ### 3D printing software pricing The pricing of 3D printing software can vary significantly based on features, capabilities, and the intended audience. It’s important to assess the unique needs of a business to identify the most suitable software solution that best aligns with their goals and budget constraints. - **Free software:** This option is suitable for those exploring 3D printing without financial commitments. Crafted for beginners and hobbyists, free 3D printing software often provides fundamental functionalities, offering risk-free exploration. Notably, free tools may be open-source software, where users can modify the code for customization, or browser-based, which provides accessibility without the need for intricate installations.  - **Freemium software:** These programs offer access to basic features in the free version, with the option to unlock premium functionalities through payment. This flexible model enables users to initiate their 3D printing journey with essential tools and seamlessly evolve as their expertise and project complexity grow. - **Subscription-based software:** Users can opt for monthly or yearly subscriptions. This model ensures continuous access to the latest updates and features, catering to those with dynamic and evolving requirements in their 3D printing endeavors. - **Perpetual license:** This is a one-time purchase option that requires an upfront investment for the indefinite use of the software. It appeals to users who prefer the conventional ownership model, providing a sense of stability and control without the burden of recurring payments. - **Enterprise software:** Tailored explicitly for businesses and professionals, these solutions come with a higher initial cost. In return, users gain access to a suite of advanced features and dedicated customer support, meeting the specific demands of professional 3D printing applications. ### Software and services related to 3D printing software A solution that is used in conjunction with 3D printing software includes: - [3D modeling software](https://www.g2.com/categories/3d-modeling): 3D printing software is most closely tied to 3D modeling software, which allows users to design basic 3D objects or characters and often includes supplemental features to flesh out models with realistic details. 3D printing software helps print 3D models created using 3D modeling tools by translating the models into language the 3D printer understands. ### Challenges with 3D printing software While 3D printing technology offers numerous advantages over traditional manufacturing techniques, it also comes with its own set of challenges. The following are some of the common challenges that can be cited while using 3D printing software. - **Limited materials:** While 3D printing helps produce a lot of 3D products, the technology is not yet perfect. At this moment, 3D printers can only print with certain materials, like plastic, metals, resins, and ceramics. And since 3D printing hasn’t quite hit mainstream popularity, the materials aren’t always easy to come by. - **Copyright issues:** As 3D printing becomes more common, the ability to counterfeit items via a 3D printer also has the potential to become easy and commonplace. For example, if a user prints a copy of an existing product, it’s virtually impossible to distinguish the two. This could lead to a slew of potential copyright issues. - **High energy consumption:** 3D printing may produce less waste than normal printing, but it, unfortunately, takes a lot of energy to power a 3D printer. In a recent study, it was found that the energy consumption of 3D printers is almost tenfold higher per kilogram of material compared to traditional production methods like injection molding. - **Steep learning curve:** 3D printers are fairly complicated to operate and maintain. They require high-voltage power supplies and specialized equipment that can be difficult for businesses to use and manage. ### How to choose the best 3D printing software #### 1. Requirements Gathering (RFI/RFP) for 3D Printing Software Whether a company is looking to purchase its first 3D printing software or upgrade to a new solution, G2.com can help select the best 3D printing platform. Choosing and deploying a 3D printing tool can be a significant initiative for a company. It brings with it a wide range of options available for features and different types of materials. A company must determine whether it wants to have an in-house solution or outsource the responsibilities to a 3D printing service provider.  The buyer can evaluate the right software fit after determining the business goals it is trying to achieve through this solution. Depending on the scope of the deployment, it might be helpful to produce an RFI, a one-page list with a few bullet points describing what is needed from the tool. #### 2. Compare 3D Printing Software Products **Create a long list** Buyers should take into account the following factors when creating a long list of options. - **User-friendly interface:** The tool should be easy to use. It must have an intuitive graphical user interface to empower users to print objects with ease. - **File import and repair:** The software must import STL files and other digital file formats containing 3D models at a high speed, regardless of their size or intricacies. It also has to prevent the reprinting of models by alerting the user of errors in the files and empowering them to repair the models. - **Accurate estimates:** The software should offer accurate evaluations of the estimated time and the amount of materials that would be required for printing. - **Compatibility:** The software must be compatible with the buyer’s operating system (OS). Even though most 3D printing solutions are versatile, some programs may only work with a specific OS. Compatibility ensures a seamless printing experience. - **Support:** The availability of adequate technical support in the event of glitches with the software is crucial. The vendor must offer training and tutorials on software usage, as well as provide technical support if the software malfunctions. **Create a short list** From the long list of vendors, narrow down the list of contenders. Organizations should select solutions that are aligned with their goals. Reading user reviews, viewing ratings on the[](https://www.g2.com/categories/3d-printing#grid)[G2 Grid](https://www.g2.com/categories/3d-printing#grid) for the 3D Printing software category, and shortening the list of vendors in the G2 "My List” down to a handful help make this smaller list. Businesses can compare the features offered by different vendors, as well as the pricing structure of various solutions. **Conduct demos** Demos provide an opportunity for buyers to see how a 3D printing platform works. While pre-recorded demonstrations and slide decks are available online, requesting a live demo of the tool will help buyers dive deep into their technical capabilities.  Mapping out a draft deployment plan or proof of concept (POC) is highly recommended before making a selection because it provides a roadmap for subsequent activities and defines the resources required at each phase. A POC should prove whether or not the tool matches the organization’s requirements.  #### 3. Selection of 3D Printing Software **Choose a selection team** Forming the team and establishing a common vision is imperative. The selection team should consist of those who will use the tool the most. This usually includes product designers as well as managers who oversee these teams.  **Negotiation** When negotiating during the purchasing stage, it’s smart to start small in terms of licenses and functionality. Licenses will always be the biggest cost of any purchase, and oftentimes, companies buy additional licenses or features that they don’t necessarily need. During this negotiation, vendors will try to convince buyers that they can offer discounts on more functionality or licenses if they buy in bulk, but most businesses don’t need this. If businesses end up needing a few more licenses down the road, they can always add them.  The selection team should always strive to have implementation and ongoing support fees included in the cost. 3D printing software is not easy to learn. Before purchasing, buyers must ensure that the vendor offers regular training or online training options to help new users onboard quickly. This way, if any ongoing support is needed, companies can contact their customer support representative. **Final decision** After the negotiation stage is over, the final decision requires buy-in from everyone on the selection team. It’s important to guarantee that all requirements are met. It’s advisable to roll out a test run or pilot program to try out adoption with a small sample size of users. If the tool is well-received, the buyer can be confident that the selection was correct. If not, it might be time to reevaluate other options. ### 3D printing software trends - **Application-driven software:** Users in the industry can expect 3D printing to be all about applications instead of technology. The industry has begun to shift its focus to identifying the right applications for 3D printing as opposed to developing new technologies. Experts predict the financial world will likely take note of this move. - **A rise in polymer materials for 3D printing:** Growth in plastic materials will be huge for industries such as aerospace and automotive, as they need materials with very specific properties and quality requirements. - **Governments becoming more involved with the 3D printing process:** As 3D printing becomes more mainstream, regulation of intellectual property and product liability becomes a bigger concern. The more that businesses use this technology, the more involved governments will be because they’ll need to create policies around these new concerns.