3-D printing may enhance direct mail campaigns
Although 3-D printing is still in its infancy, companies might soon begin to see how this technology can be incorporated into direct mail campaigns in the future. For instance, marketers can use the innovative process to manufacture branded marketing materials that would then be sent to direct mail subscribers. Companies that specialize in a certain product or service might create a 3-D model of their most popular item to be sent to customers, adding a creative incentive to purchase that will remain long after paper is disposed of​. However, it's important to remember address correction software would be essential to have a marketing budget accommodate 3-D printing.
The evolution of printing
3-D printing is an emerging technology that takes a custom design from a computer and uses high-tech plastic powders and advanced adhesive substances to print out the design into a real model. It has become a favorite of inventors due to its unlimited potential, which may also make it perfect for direct mail campaigns in the long run.
According to Extreme Tech, 3-D printing is quickly gaining momentum among graphic designers and engineers, and new software is bringing color to the printing technology. Before, 3-D printing used to only offer limited color choices, but the technology is advancing to allow for a spectrum of customized colors due to enhancements in the cartridges.
The technology is still somewhat expensive, with prices currently ranging in the high thousands of dollars. However, companies in the 3-D technology industry are beginning to lower their prices, with The Guardian reporting that within the next three years they might be under $2,000.
Many industries hope to use 3-D printing to make improvements, such as in the healthcare and manufacturing fields. But marketing might see the advantages as well. The technology may allow companies to print out branded material, such as promotional figurines or small-sized demos of the business' top selling products, which can then be sent out to mailing lists as a unique advertising method.
Address verification would then be crucial if 3-D printing transitions into the marketing world, as sending such an expensive item to the incorrect address would not be financially viable for the company. However, 3-D printing would allow companies to market the brand in a truly creative way, as the business can have complete design control.