Drexel University

A 3D Printing Marketplace for connecting Makers and Designers

3D printing is a new technology domain which introduces a variety of problems. Those without 3D printers face many problems getting involved in the space, including a high startup cost and a steep learning curve. Meanwhile, those with 3D printers may be missing opportunities to monetize their printers and knowledge of printing technology. Currently no products exist to solve both sides of this problem. 

The purpose of WePrint is to connect customers and makers, allowing newcomers access to 3D printing services without as much prerequisite knowledge or high startup costs, and allowing makers to make money from their investment in 3D printing. 

WePrint allows customers to find makers to print their 3D models. The site has two sides: makers and customers. For customers WePrint provides fair prices for services by implementing a blind bidding system. Customers can post a job and receive bids from makers, who can see all the details of the job but not other makers’ bids. This provides maximum value by finding customers fair prices and allowing makers to make effective use of their printers at prices they are comfortable with.