There are several “linkup services” that join buyers to makers, but Scan and Make has a different angle than we’ve seen before.
It’s a problem that happens everywhere: someone needs something to make, but doesn’t know how. Meanwhile, there are people who like to make things (especially for money) but don’t know what to make. The solution: link them together.
There have been several 3D print-oriented services that enable those requiring 3D print services to find someone to get it done, but we think the problem could be a bit deeper.
“Making Things” could mean 3D printing, but it could also mean other methods of production too. In fact, often the best way to make a complex object is through a combination of methods that could include 3D printing, but also may require laser cutting or CNC milling. These other techniques may not be able to produce any arbitrary geometric shape, but they can make restricted geometries at great speed and low cost.
By combining making techniques together, you could arrive at an optimum approach. And that’s what Scan and Make is all about. The service links buyers to makers – but is set up to handle various types of making processes, including 3D printing.
The service provides an efficient way for requestors to describe their needs by picking services from a list, and then presenting the job to makers, who then bid on the job in an auction process. Scan and Make provides escrow services for payments, which are released when the job is completed. That is, less five percent, which is their charge for facilitating the transaction.
While the service is based in Liverpool, UK, the work is indeed global. Much of the work is digital and can take place anywhere, while products can be physically produced and shipped to requestors worldwide.
For those readers able to make things (and we think there are a lot of you), you might want to check out Scan and Make.
Via Scan and Make
