10 reasons why 3D configuration custom shirts can boost apparel businesses

Product customization is a big trend for online businesses out there. It empowers customers to make their own decisions and increases brand reputation and loyalty. It´s a win-win situation for companies and clients. A personalized customer experience is pivotal for eCommerce businesses to stand out, especially if you work in retail, the most competitive of them all.

Providing custom shirts is a simple and easy way to stay ahead of the curve. 3D configuration will make the process smooth and hyper-customizable.

1# Customers get to do it themselves

In a world where there are 12-14 million eCommerce businesses, it´s difficult to stay ahead of the curve. Custom shirts designed in a 3D configurator introduce a great level of engagement.

The shopper is involved in the process from the begging and can “try” out distinctive designs. All this brings a certain gamification into the buying process which is also great for website engagement.

2# What you see is what you get

3D configurators have great precision. Clients can experience their custom shirts almost the same way they would in a store.

That´s right!

3D configuration allows 360 views of the product, shoppers can zoom in and out, rotate it, and, with Augmented Reality they can actually try it on. Customers can get a true “feel” of the product, and see if it fits their skin tone or their eye color.

The normal website custom shirt can be misleading, with 3D configuration, what you see is what you get.

3# Works with all sorts of shirts and all sorts of clients

Everyone is different. Each apparel brand has its own niche target audience but with custom shirts, companies will be able to broaden their market spectrum.

No need to have specific buyer personas with certain characteristics. Shirt customization can help eCommerce businesses that work in retail to reach all age groups using their own resources. From custom embroidered shirts to personalized polo shirts, 3D configuration works with all sorts of garments and all sorts of brands.

A baseball clothing company could do it but so could a luxury shirt brand.

4# Customers can customize more than color and fit

Most businesses that allow customization have a certain limit to what one may add. Usually, shoppers can stamp a picture of some kind to be printed onto the shirt or maybe change the size and color.

3D configuration allows for unprecedented customization. There’s no limit to what apparel companies can provide. Besides color, material, and size, businesses can add special features like accessories or embroideries and lettering. Club Brugge did it with their sports shirts and the outcome is really impressive.

5# 3D configuration is prone to fewer mistakes

Expivi’s 3D configuration platform, in particular, enables clients to configure products and automatically see the price associated with the chosen features (color, material, size) at the same time a Bill of Materials is generated and sent to production.

This improves the overall customer experience since they are able to have access to the price in real-time and it minimizes production errors because the manufacturers will have access to the complete list of materials necessary for production.

6# For brands is a great way of reducing inventory

Even in retail, traditional manufacturing involves complex logistics operations. Storage and inventory are a nightmare for companies and take a real tol on their budgets. Together with providing and maintaining transportation and infrastructures, the manufacturing costs go through the roof.

Customization means manufacturing on demand. By enabling shirt personalization and customization, for example, businesses will significantly reduce logistics costs, as the need for the storage, insurance, marketing, and distribution of readymade products is severely reduced.

On demand production virtually eliminates the need to store a large number of materials and goods. Instead of guessing what consumer wants and stockpiling inventory, brands can meet the demand directly because orders are only made when requested. So, besides reducing inventory, it minimizes the need to forecast new product volumes or meet minimum order requirements.

7# Custom shirts are less likely to be returned

A little fact: at least 30% of all products ordered online are returned. It’s a very high number, particularly when compared to 8.89% in stores. With a 3D configuration platform, what you see is what you get.

Customization empowers customers in their buying journey. They can create something that is unique to them and matches their desires. 3D configuration and Augmented Reality helps shoppers make more informed decisions when it comes to purchases since they can view a more accurate representation of it.

3D configurators make shirt personalization and customization possible, and clients are less likely to return something they created themselves than something that was built for the masses.

8# It´s differentiating for both brands and clients

On-demand or make-to-order products can maximize customer value. Deloitte found that customers are willing to pay up to 20% more for personalized products. It’s the future of online retail.

In the US, 71% of customers expect personalization, with 76% frustrated when this doesn’t happen, McKinsey discovered.

The impact of getting customization right is incredible, with those that do, growing 40% faster than those who don’t.

Customers who are able to customize products buy more. This is good for both parts of the equation. Brands will be able to charge more for their products at the same time they sell more, and clients will be happier with their unique purchases. When engaged in selecting colors or adding features, users experience greater engagement, which, more often than not, translates into a purchase.

3D configuration provides that extra zing that brands need to stay ahead of the competition whilst enabling their clients to feel unique as well.

9# Tackling personalized gifting

Personalized gifting can be a good way of upscaling apparel businesses. It’s a matter of introducing simple tech, like a 3D configurator, and re-utilizing resources companies already have.

It’s also good for the customer who can hand on create a gift which is ideal for someone. Custom shirts significantly enhance the emotional connection toward a product, and make the perfect personalized gift.

Upscaling eCommerce businesses that work in fashion doesn’t have to be a three-headed monster.

10# Customization with 3D configuration is better for the environment

84 % of clothing ends up in landfills or incinerators.

In New York City alone, more than 400 million pounds of clothes are wasted each year.

These are astoundingly scary numbers.

By providing shirt customization with 3D configuration, you’ll be tackling these issues.

In traditional retail, the amount of products manufactured is determined by an estimate of consumer demand. That estimate is highly susceptible to errors, creating the possibility of supply surpassing demand.

This means companies usually produce more than they sell, generating waste that also constitutes a hazard to the environment.

There is zero chance of supply ever surpassing demand in the manufacturing make-to-order model, as supply is only ever created on demand. Customization is part of that model. This way, businesses will only create what is ordered, so it’s a no-waste solution.

Also, in the same way, consumers are less likely to return products they customized themselves, they are also less likely to throw them away. Why? Because they have an ‘emotional’ connection to them. It’s something made by them, just for them.

All of this contributes to a more sustainable future. The fashion industry needs to change, and something as simple as custom shirts made by a 3D configurator can be the perfect first step into a greener industry.

Did you like this article on custom shirts? Then read all about why you should be selling customized products!

How to Use 3D Configuration for Custom Running Shoes

How to Use 3D Configuration to Find the Perfect Running Shoe

A custom running shoe configurator is the gateway to perfectly shaped running shoes designed for your feet. Customers will have the ability to create a design, style, and shape that suits all of their needs. Training for running can be grueling, and finding the right fit is essential to progress and comfortability. So let’s see how 3D configurators can help you find the perfect running shoe.

Customized running shoes

A custom-designed running shoe can have many different parts, so shoe companies began utilizing a revolutionary new way to make them. 3D software allows customers to customize every aspect of their shoe to fit their morphology, running style, and personal taste. Shoe companies wanted to extend this concept of product personalization to their running shoes‘ interior and exterior design. By utilizing Expivi, your shoe company can create a 3D platform that allows customers to visualize their customized shoes in 360 degrees.

This technology provides customers the option to choose a base model and then fully customize the design. For example, shoe manufacturers can upload a design of their choice to create a unique pair of shoes. Once a design has been selected, the user can choose which colors, materials, and shapes to use for the product. After finalizing, the 3D configurator will automatically transfer this information into a custom running shoe.

What can be customized on a running shoe?

When choosing custom-made shoes, customers can also choose to customize the midsole, outsoles, and other components. Some configurators even allow customers to personalize their shoe’s laces, tongue, and heel. Using these tools, customers can easily customize their new shoes and get the perfect fit without trying them on at a retail store. In addition, the configurator can be used for free by consumers, so it’s easy and convenient to find the perfect pair.

Running shoes in AR

The ability to customize a running shoe’s design using augmented reality (AR) technology may be the next big thing for shoe companies. This technology will help businesses create custom-designed shoes that cater to the needs of their customers. As a result, customers will see their customized products in the real world, thereby increasing the likelihood of buying them. The augmented reality capability will also allow brands to use the configurator with an augmented reality solution to bring their retail locations right into the customer’s home.

3D visualization for running shoes

One of the most effective ways to create an interactive online experience for custom-made running shoes is with 3D visualization. By incorporating 360-degree views of each shoe and allowing the customer to rotate it to view the entire design, 3D visualization can dramatically increase sales. In addition to demonstrating each shoe’s fit and styling, 3D models help retailers display custom details in real-time. Customers can even view how the shoes look in varying lighting conditions and try different colors and styles.

For instance, custom-made shoe customers will choose a shoe using a 3D visualization tool. The custom-made shoe is then designed to be specifically made to fit the individual’s feet. The customer can then choose from multiple colors and textures to create a shoe that is both unique and comfortable. In addition, the 3D experience is integrated into the Nike app, allowing the runner to customize their personalized shoe design, right down to the last detail, which includes the color and texture of the shoes.

Modern shoe companies use 3D technology to produce individualized shoes while streamlining production. Customizing a shoe can boost a runner’s performance on the track, where milliseconds can mean the difference between a podium or not.

Using data, researchers can create a three-dimensional diagram of the foot’s biomechanics. This information helps them understand the areas of the foot that are stressed during each foot strike. The researchers can also use this information to create a custom-made shoe that is lightweight and comfortable.

Shapes of feet

The 3D foot shape analysis has several advantages over the traditional 2D footprint analysis. First, 3D scans can show the difference in vertical foot shape. For instance, people with high arches have thicker forefoots and a more prominent Achilles tendon. Also, flat feet are more likely to have a wider heel. These human data points will create the most accurate custom running shoe possible today.

This interactive customization experience lets customers add personal touches and preview the finished design in real-time. A custom shoe 3D configurator is not just for designers but for people who want to make their own shoes.

Types of running shoes

There are many different types of running shoes. One of the essential features is heel-to-toe offset. This measures the thickness of the midsole under the heel and the front of the foot. Traditional running shoes tend to have a high heel-to-toe drop, encouraging the foot to strike the ground with the heel first. On the other hand, zero-drop shoes have equal cushioning under the heel and the front of the foot. A zero-drop shoe promotes the midfoot strike, considered a lower impact stride.

Besides the comfort and durability of the shoe, it should suit the terrain. Road running shoes are better suited to flat surfaces like pavement and dry quickly. Trail running shoes have spiked bottoms and are stiffer. They provide better traction and are lighter in weight. Depending on the terrain, trail running shoes are better suited to rocky surfaces.

The cushioning system on a running shoe determines how comfortable it is to run in. The foam density in the midsole is a crucial component in how cushioning works for runners. Therefore, you’ll want to choose a shoe with high-density foam in the midsole and soft foam for the heel. These features will help your feet run smoothly without causing pain or discomfort. However, if your shoes are too weak, the shoe’s longevity can lessen.

If you’re looking for a custom shoe, then you’ve probably already heard of the benefits from a fellow runner. It truly is the only way to find the perfect shoe.

Infinite Scrolling for E-commerce Stores

Increasing time on site with infinite scrolling can be a great way to boost sales for e-commerce stores. The benefits of endless scrolling are to keep consumers on your shopping page without bouncing around. This is an excellent choice for categories where users tend to scan the product range rather than focus on individual items. By concisely categorizing your store, customers will find what they need faster and be able to scroll through related items.

How infinite scrolling helps e-commerce

Infinite scrolling helps e-commerce stores improve customer engagement. This design allows customers to browse through a catalog of products without having to go from page to page. The benefit of this design is that users are less likely to skip a page and are more likely to spend time on the most relevant products. In addition, infinite scrolling has been proven to improve user experience, which can lead to return customers and a positive brand experience.

Infinite scrolling allows users to compare products across the entire list rather than narrowing their search results to the last few products. This technique boosts the discovery rate of products, making it more likely the user will see what they need quickly.

Ultimately, infinite scrolling is a good thing for some e-commerce stores. The user experience can improve, and it may keep customers engaged. Endless scrolling is also compatible with most third-party extensions, making integrations easier. Unlike traditional pagination, infinite scrolling can set your store apart from the competition, depending on your industry.

Infinite scrolling for easy browsing

The rise of touchscreen mobile devices has prompted e-commerce merchants to turn to infinite scrolling for easy browsing. The benefit of this new feature is its speed, which eliminates the need for pagination. Endless scrolling is designed to pull users in. People tend to become impatient if the page takes too long to load. In addition, the „see more“ button on a page can annoy visitors. This technology is most effective for websites that contain a lot of data, such as e-commerce stores.

People get tired of looking through endless results pages and often leave a site. But, by allowing customers to browse without waiting for the next page to load, they can spend more time browsing and making purchases. That way, e-commerce retailers can avoid losing customers because of high bounce rates.

If endless scrolling seems like it’s for you, there are a few things to consider. While infinite scrolling makes browsing more convenient, it can also be distracting. Users may be less likely to look at the same items again. Add a “load more” button to minimize the distractions associated with infinite scrolling. Loading more buttons lets users compare more products and improve the overall product discoverability rate. However, switching to this setup can negatively impact the number of impressions a website receives. Taking these details into consideration is essential before making the switch.

Increase time on site with infinite scrolling

Infinite scrolling can help increase time on site. In addition, to pre-loading information, it can also increase speed, which is excellent for mobile devices. Users looking for information on a touchscreen phone are more likely to stay shopping on site. An infinite scroll also allows website owners to show more content at once.

Infinite scrolling is an excellent feature for visual websites. Unlike traditional websites, users can view a large variety of content on one page. Endless scrolling also allows users to interact with content without interruption. Users will be more likely to spend more time on a page if they can easily see a range of information at once.

When choosing a design scheme for infinite scrolling, remember that it’s essential to consider your customers‘ habits. For instance, endless scrolling increases the user’s experience, but it is not necessarily better for their productivity. For example, people can get bored of infinite scrolling by clicking on the „load more“ button after viewing the first few items on a page. In addition, endless scrolling may decrease the user impressions in analytics, but if conversions are rising, there is a clear benefit.

Infinite scrolling and touchscreens

Among other technological improvements that e-commerce sites can make, mobile-friendly infinite scrolling should be considered a part of the design. The intent is to improve user experience and keep customers interested. Scrolling is faster and more natural than clicking, leading to higher rates of product visibility. In addition, users enjoy infinite scrolling when browsing a website, as they can easily browse products without ever having to stop, which is natural for mobile use in 2022.

Infinite scrolling vs. pagination

How do you decide which one to go with? The first thing you need to decide is the goal of your site. Are you purely trying to generate revenue? Or do you want to provide a user experience that’s as pleasant as possible to build brand awareness for other monetization later on? An excellent way to determine which is right for you is to ask your current customers or your user experience designer.

These are many reasons why infinite scrolling is an increasingly popular option for e-commerce stores. Combine this with 3D product pages and customizable 360-degree visualization, and your e-commerce store will hold consumers on your website at a much higher rate.

If you are looking for more ways to increase positive user experience and conversions on your e-commerce website. Check out some more of our resources. We are here to help facilitate your transition into the 3D world

Benefits from Virtual Furniture Showrooms in AR

Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that can allow you to buy furniture in a virtual store. By superimposing real-life 3D models of your chosen virtual furniture, you can change colors and patterns and move it around to find the best fit for your space. The technology also allows you to adjust the size and style, saving time and money while choosing the perfect piece of furniture. The result is an improved shopping experience and a happier customer.

Furniture in Augmented Reality

AR technology has made it possible to create virtual furniture showrooms, bringing design inspiration into the home. With augmented reality, customers can see the furniture in 3D and customize it to suit their preferences. Then, with just one click, they can see what it would look like in their actual room and make the purchase. AR can also be used in physical stores to give customers more information about the products they’re interested in.

As the furniture industry is highly visual, AR can make shopping more accessible and engaging for customers. AR allows shoppers to view and experience different types of virtual furniture in their environment. Augmented reality is particularly beneficial to furniture retailers because most buyers use their phones when researching products and browsing websites.

AR can also help retailers communicate with their customers, helping them find the furniture they want while giving them an added sense of trust, which can help them make an informed decision about which pieces are best for them.

Allow customers to view the furniture in their room before buying it. They can change the color, pattern, and style before purchasing. They can choose the quality items for their space while saving time and money. With augmented reality, customers can select their table from the virtual showroom. You are allowing them to see the pieces in their specific space and decide if they’re ready to make a purchase.

The first AR virtual furniture company to implement AR was IKEA. The IKEA Place app allows shoppers to place thousands of products in their homes with 98% accuracy, and other retailers have followed suit. In addition, software such as Expivi can bring this technology to any store in 2022.

Shopping for Furniture Virtually

Augmented reality (AR) technology lets you view furniture in a virtual showroom before purchasing. This technology superimposes real-life 3D models of virtual furniture on an AR-enabled screen. You can change the color and patterns of virtual items and move them around the room, allowing you to determine their style and size. By using AR in furniture showrooms, retailers can improve customer satisfaction.

In addition to improving customer experience, AR-powered showrooms allow retailers to customize online shopping. For example, large retailers are implementing 3D shopping tours for customers to browse curated apartments.

Although AR is making strides in the industry, the future looks even more exciting. Companies are integrating digital content directly into the camera’s perspective, enabling customers to see new furniture in their homes.

Furniture AR for Customer Retention

In addition to offering various options, AR-enabled showrooms allow customers to preview furniture under different lighting conditions. V-commerce has already become a reality, offering retailers enticing customer acquisition and retention opportunities.

As the trend of augmented reality continues to disrupt traditional retail, more retailers are embracing the new technology. Amazon, Ikea, and Macy’s have adapted AR to increase sales. But even in this hyper-competitive environment, retailers of all types are turning to AR as a sales solution.

How Can AR Improve your Customer Experience?

With the help of AR, you can view virtual furniture from any angle and change the colors and styles of various pieces. AR also helps you determine whether or not a product will fit into the room where you’d like to place it. You can move the furniture around the room and zoom in on finer details. With AR, you can get a natural feel for the size and design of a specific product, and you can view how it matches the existing home decor.

Augmented Reality for Office Design

Augmented reality is an exciting new tool that allows office designers to create an environment that combines both digital and physical environments. The technology will enable you to place colleagues and workstations in one room for more efficient use of space.

To make the most of AR, you’ll need a digital designer who understands AR’s benefits and limitations. Digital content management skills are in high demand and will be essential for compelling AR experiences. A good AR expert will have the technical skills to develop content for augmented reality and create an immersive environment for users. The future of workspace design is here, so get ready to benefit from Expivi software to create the environment you want.

The technology is still evolving, but it has some significant advantages. While augmented reality adds features and enhancements to the real world, virtual reality creates an entirely different environment. It requires a headset to view the experience, consisting of high-resolution photographs stitched together with animations. In addition, VR allows users to move around the scene and look in all directions. Architects and interior designers are already using VR technology in their workflow.

AR has multiple benefits for office design. First, it helps architects and designers take structures off the drawing board and into the real world. It can create pop-up 3D models of the structures they’re working on and enrich those with digital content. Furthermore, AR can help designers visualize and analyze the flow of people and equipment in the office. This technology is helpful for engineers and fabricators, and it can eliminate errors in development projects.

Virtual Furniture for Home

The introduction of augmented reality (AR) in eCommerce has made the process of buying new furniture easier than ever before. By superimposing digital information over real-life objects, AR allows consumers to vizualize new furniture and make adjustments.This way, consumers can make the best possible decisions and save money simultaneously.

Using AR, companies can create a mobile app or web app that lets consumers visualize different furniture models and make detailed changes. In addition, customers can watch videos, shop, and even see what items would look like in their rooms before purchasing. And because the app allows customers to walk through a showroom virtually, they can see if they want to buy a particular piece. AR furniture apps are currently available in the US, with other countries to follow soon.

Moreover, AR allows users to try out different angles of the products, and determine if the piece would fit in a room. With the help of augmented reality, they can even move the furniture around and zoom in on its details. This new technology will help buyers create the ideal space for their needs.

How to Use Virtual Photography 2022

Virtual photography is a type of art and design that changes how customers shop online. 3D rendering and 360-degree viewing give consumers a new opportunity for discovery. The future of 3D visualization is bright, and it may be here to stay. Read on to discover more about this emerging art form. To learn more, read the following articles:

Virtual photography in 2022

Virtual photography can help organizations market products digitally and inspire sales. In addition, 3D assets can be created with Expivi software to guide you through the configuration process. As a result, brands can create highly-reliable models of their products for various purposes.

Virtual photography introduces new workflows and skills for those who prepare 3D assets. Teams must consider lighting, composition, staging, and more. Virtual photography can reduce workflow and speed by allowing users to manipulate assets to display 3D products in realistic environments.

The future of this technology is now available to everyone, and many retailers could benefit from it. Increasingly powerful configurations can help make virtual photography more accessible and mainstream. In addition, this technology can help brands reach their goals and grow their business with limitless design options.

Virtual photographers can capture images of any subject by capturing the natural world in a 360-degree environment. They can also use our software to create interactive environments, which is cost-effective. This technology has replaced traditional photography.

Virtual photography is a great way to replace expensive commercial photography. Simulating natural environments affects camera and sensor behavior to create a digital output that resembles the real thing. As such, it replaces physical products with digital assets. And with intelligent integrations, the future of 3D imaging is expanding. So how does it work? Let’s take a closer look. It’s time for virtual photography to take its place in commercial photography.

Realistic Product Images

Realistic 3D images are your best bet if you want more than just a pretty picture to sell your products. The process can be a time-saving and cost-effective alternative to expensive real-world photoshoots. With the right tools, you can create photorealistic images that show your products in their most natural state. Here’s how virtual photography works. First, you gather your requirements, such as base images, 2D assets, or CAD files.

Next, designers use our sophisticated computer software to create highly realistic 3D versions of products. This way, you can zoom in on any detail and make interactive elements available to viewers. This type of photography output is essentially the same as the model but filled with design elements, depth, and texture. It can also show different lighting options, colors, materials, and combinations of those components. Because the imagery is incredibly detailed and life-like, you can expect your customers to be able to visualize your products quickly.

For those in the apparel industry, virtual photos have accelerated the adoption of 3D technology. With more design teams working remotely and collaborative relationships with suppliers getting strained, 3D assets have become essential for in-house and supply chain purposes. The audience for sample approval wants technical accuracy, but flexibility is also crucial. Meanwhile, the audience for the online marketplace is more subjective. So, virtual photography provides the best of both worlds and is a critical component of the retail landscape.

Virtual Product Designs Before Prototypes

The most significant benefit of virtual photography is that it allows companies to produce highly realistic product images that are not yet available in the real world. Because designs are entirely computer-generated, they can render products in a highly realistic manner before they’re even manufactured. This approach also enables companies to meet deadlines much faster by allowing the production of virtual models before the actual manufacture of physical products.

Products based on digital files are incredibly flexible, allowing photographers to manipulate a product’s colors, angles, and other aspects before it is even manufactured. As a result, it is an excellent option for product launches and rollouts, as it builds excitement and enables businesses to scale production costs. So get on board, because it is becoming an increasingly popular option for all industries.

eCommerce Virtual Photography

Aside from lowering shipping and storage costs, virtual photography helps improve results on eCommerce platforms. More organized images help retain customer interest and lower return rates. Customers are more likely to buy products if they are confident in their quality. If you want to boost conversions, 3D configurations are an ideal option. Read on to discover how this technology can increase conversions.

3D photo capture is not suitable for every retail challenge, but it is putting its stamp on the eCommerce industry. Virtual photography, also known as 3D product imaging, can replace or enhance traditional photography processes. The primary aim of both techniques is to create high-fidelity images that entice customers to browse and purchase. 3D photography is an excellent alternative to traditional photography, it has certain advantages that make it a more viable option for eCommerce.

Virtual Photography Showcasing

Virtual photography allows retailers to showcase a product range without going through the costly process of studio photography. Traditional shoots require multiple angles. Virtual photography eliminates such expensive photo shoots and allows online sellers to create huge image galleries with little effort. As a result, it takes your store to a new level and increases conversions.

The new technology requires new data structuring and workflows and opens the door for augmented reality. In addition, pipeline automation can take over the process of rendering different levels of detail models for varying use cases.

Virtual photography campaigns may include multiple stagings and configurations, with different colorways and variations for other markets. It can also involve the creation of product prototypes. For eCommerce, virtual photography for online shopping will be an indispensable tool for increasing your profits.

5 facts on why scalability is essential for online businesses

Revenue, profit, growth. That’s what businesses sought after.

Scalability is a term often used to describe growth and it’s part of a company’s strategy for expansion. In eCommerce it can mean accommodating the needs of your business’s online growth or diversifying your offer. This diversification can happen geographically (expanding to a different market) or in product development (coming up with different product designs or features).

Often associated with large enterprises, scalability is pivotal to medium and small scale businesses.

Why? You’re at the right place to figure that out. We bring you five reasons why scalability is essential for online businesses.

1. It’s a competitive market out there

Online commerce has never been more popular. At this point in time, 93.5% of global internet users have purchased products online and, by 2040, it’s estimated that 95% of all purchases will be through eCommerce.

It’s great news!

However, the competition has never been fiercer. There are an estimated 12-24 million (!!!) eCommerce websites around the world.

Simple marketing and sales techniques are not enough in a booming market like the online one.

Companies have to upscale quickly to stay ahead of the competition and investment is the easiest way to do it. Innovation is another way. 3D configuration can be the perfect solution and we explain all about that in this article (you seriously have to read it, it’s so good).

2. Saves time and resources in the long run

Scaling up processes early on will allow you to save time later on as you progress as a company. It will be easier to penetrate different markets and have trained employees who can be confident about your product and internal processes.

Scaling your business, later on, is also doable. Sometimes you don’t have enough time or the team is still too small or you haven’t found the right strategy yet. But, it’s better to do it sooner than later and automate certain aspects so you can have an optimized workflow.

3. Makes it easy to go international

Scalability is important if you want to go international. Your internal processes must be ready to expand to different areas and your product has to be relevant and easy to produce.

3D configuration can also be the right choice for those who require manufacturing in different locations and places with different languages. Why?

Because with a 3D configurator, there’s no getting it wrong. Translate the configurator and you have an up and running business in that market. Also, your manufacturers will receive all the materials, quantities features that the product requires as the order is completed. No need to go back and forth with changes.

Having a scalable strategy right away will ensure the process runs as smoothly as possible.

4. Retains efficiency

Solid scalability strategies mean that you’ll be able to expand without sacrificing the quality of your product, whether you add new layers to it or explore a new market.

Horizontal scalability strategies will ensure that once you upscale to other locations, the product and the customer experience will not be affected.

Vertical scalability strategies will enable you to add more value to your existing product without needing to explore more expensive ways of growth.

All this helps retain efficiency.

5. It can be the perfect way of using your existing resources

As said before, scalability is often associated with heavy investment, both time and financial.

It’s difficult to find a scaling up solution that doesn’t require a lot of hours, a lot of research, and tons of difficult decisions.

3D configuration bypasses those hardships.

It’s easy to integrate into your existing business and it uses your current resources. Of course, some training is needed to make sure your team knows how to work with a configurator, but you won’t need more sales power or even developers to scale up your product when needed.

A financial investment is also required, but you’ll be creating an entire business proposition that you can use for as long as your online business exists.

A few other words on 3D configuration and scalability

Scalability is what most companies want to achieve. From small scale businesses to medium or large scale ones, continuous ways of growing is their main goal.

Innovation is a great way to ensure that you are staying ahead of the curve in your industry and 3D configuration can provide that.

You’ll be empowering your customer to personalize or customize your offer, you’ll be able to easily add features to your products and create new ones using the configurator library. Finally, you’ll have access to valuable data on what your clients are creating. All this will allow your company to tackle both horizontal and vertical scalability.

It’s within your reach. Grab it!

Did you like this article on scalability? Then check out our entry on how you can upscale your online business with 3D configuration here

Scaling Up Your eCommerce Business with Incredible 3D Configuration

Have you thought about scaling up your business, taking it to new heights? The competition has never been fiercer in the eCommerce world. According to Forbes, the pandemic was responsible for a 50% increase in online sales but the number of eBusinesses also boomed exponentially.

It’s more difficult to scale up innovatively and stand out from the online babel. 3D configuration can be a differential factor for you, but first, let’s go through some of the basics.

What is scalability in eCommerce?

There are many definitions when it comes to scalability since it affects several sectors, from logistics to management.

In logistics, for example, scalability means being able to support operations at their lowest or highest volumes, and everything in between.

In eCommerce management, scaling up a business can mean accommodating the needs of your business’s online growth or diversifying your offer. This diversification can happen geographically (expanding to a different market) or in product development (coming up with different product designs).

At the end of the day, scalability in eCommerce is closely related to growth and how a company can increase its revenue, audience, and market share.

There are two ways a company can grow or scale, stay tuned to know more.

Vertical vs horizontal growth

Vertical growth

Scaling up vertically is a traditional strategy adopted by many small businesses with growth potential. It essentially represents a way of scaling up your product within the existing core business.

Practically you can consider that your company is vertically growing when you dive deeper into your market or increase the demand for your product. How to do it? A good strategy is to add new features or capabilities to your existing products.

One of the best examples of vertical growth is Instagram. It started as a normal photo-sharing app that then evolved into a more complex business by introducing the smartphone camera into its proposition.

Instagram’s growth strategy has been focused on developing its core product, adding new features regularly such as photo filters, chat, stories, and business accounts.

Horizontal growth

This growth is usually observed in bigger companies since it means expanding to new markets and/or including entirely new products/services.

How to scale horizontally?

Expand your business to new markets
Expand your product range (for example, going from an only-jewelry brand to a full fashion brand)
Upscale your product so it can serve other industry needs

A great horizontal growth example is Uber. Uber started in one US city and is now present in 72 countries. Besides that, it took advantage of its capabilities and expanded to new domains such as UberEats, a food delivery app.

Horizontal growth is usually harder to implement. Why? There are challenges in upscaling your business to other markets such as localization, shipment, and market-specific problems, which is why a vertical growth strategy is typically more lucrative and can result in a better Return on Investment (ROI).

Can scalable software help your company grow?

Yes!

As you can probably tell scaling up is no easy deed. Just to mention a few of the required steps, you have to have a strong and clear value proposition, study the market, define an Ideal Customer Profile (ICP) and have a solid product and sampling strategy.

If you don’t have a scalable website or if you don’t have scalable software, then it’s going to be trickier for you to expand both vertically and horizontally.

Why is 3D configuration the best scalable solution for online businesses?

A 3D configurator uses 3D models (duh!) of your products and allows you to control their features, empowering personalization and customization. How?

Using a visual interface, your customers will be able to change product attributes. For example, when buying a car, it could include modifying its color, upgrading the wheels, or adding internal features such as a new stereo or touchscreen.

It enhances the customer experience and allows shoppers to get a real “feel” of an online product.

How can you use a 3D product configurator in the process of scaling up your eCommerce business?

For vertical growth, you can

Add new features to your products – once you have the initial 3D models, you can easily create new ones with thousands of permutations by editing a few settings.
Know what your customers are creating – instead of customers saying what they want, you can see what they want, and that’s incredibly powerful.
Use the data on the platform to create new products that follow your business line – by having access to what your clients are creating, you can find a way to integrate those configured products into your online shop.

For horizontal growth, you can

Reduce sampling costs – with 3D configurators the process of creating, adding, and removing content is simpler. Instead of creating a new model, one can just edit settings. This is helpful if you are trying to expand to new markets and you want less fuss.
Go to new markets by having a translated configurator – by translating a configurator you upscale your business to new markets without having to create new imagery and without needing employees who speak your original language.
Make manufacturing simpler – expanding can be difficult and more demand can be a problem for manufacturers. However, by having a 3D configuration platform, you can make sure that your manufacturers have a complete bill of materials (aka BOM is a list of the raw materials, sub-assemblies, intermediate assemblies, sub-components, parts, and the correspondent quantities needed to manufacture a product).
Expand your core domain – once you have the configurator, it’s easier to try and expand your business by creating new products or solutions. Maybe you work in the lighting business and you decide to upscale to home hardware, with a 3D configurator that process is simplified.

3D configuration also has beneficial effects that are independent of the growth strategy. These include:

Fewer production mistakes – a 3D configurator allows your clients to personalize your product’s characteristics taking into account their own needs. Associated with a BOM, this option will result in fewer production mistakes.
Fewer product returns – this is directly related to the previous topic. Fewer mistakes mean fewer returns. Fewer returns mean less shipping expenses. By empowering customers to create their own customized products, you are specifically targeting their needs, which results in less product dissatisfaction.
Staying ahead of the curve – normal product imagery isn’t what it used to be. To stay ahead of the curve, online businesses have to innovate. If you provide a better customer experience you will be differentiating yourself from the competition.
Making personalization easier – with a 3D configurator, personalization and customization are easy to achieve. Customers want it. In fact, 80% of consumers are more likely to purchase from a brand that provides a truly personalized experience.

Scaling up your business with Expivi

There are a few 3D configuration platforms out there, but why Expivi?

Well, Expivi is tested to perform with all popular eCommerce platforms, including:

SAP (Hybris)
Salesforce
Magento
WooCommerce
Shopify

The process doesn’t require any coding, which makes things easier.

At the same time, Expivi offers augmented reality (AR) tech. This means that besides allowing better product visualization, personalization, and customization, you’ll also be empowering your customer to place the product in their context (for example a sofa in their living room).

Expivi’s 3D configuration platform is a CPQ (Custom, Price, Quote) software. All process unfolds in real-time, meaning that the client will be able to see the final pricing as the features are changed or customized. Impressive, right? The manufacturers also have access to the platform and immediately see the products ordered and have access to the BOM. Everything in the same platform.

Scaling up with 3D configuration works for customers, sellers, and manufacturers.

Are there doubts about the usefulness of a 3D configurator in scaling up online businesses? Hopefully not, but if so, our team would be more than glad to talk to you about it.

Did you like „Scaling Up Your eCommerce Business with 3D Configuration“? Then read about how companies are using augmented reality to upscale their businesses.

What is Parametric Configuration?

What is parametric configuration? It sounds comprehensive, doesn’t it? Well, it allows designers to create 3D simulations of furniture, jewelry, sporting equipment, and more based on a set of parameters. Unlike direct modeling, a person using parametric configuration can input information to create their own models. Using this method is ideal for anyone looking for the future of design.

What is parametric configuration and how does it work?

With a parametric configuration, you can see the product in 3D immediately without waiting for it to be built. This technology allows sellers to move faster and create more compelling visual assets. This helps them build trust with clients during the sales process, which makes buying decisions easier. Ultimately increasing client satisfaction and increased customer loyalty. The parametric configurator works much like CAD software. You input the dimensions of your products, and a 3-D model is created based on that data.

A parametric model enables you to change one parameter, and other derived parameters may automatically change. For example, if you change the length of a product, a second parameter, such as the wall thickness, will automatically adjust to match. With parametric configuration, manufacturers can design and test their products directly within digital environments and can evaluate them against various parameter combinations. This is important when assessing the performance of complex products.

Advantages of parametric configuration

The advantages of parametric configuration are apparent. You can create multiple designs from one dataset and switch back and forth between them as needed. In addition, parametric modeling helps designers avoid the tedious task of creating several configuration tables for each model.

In Parametric 1.0, you had to enter each parameter as a single value in the configuration table. As you add more parameters, the configuration table gets more complex to manage. So, the advantage of parametric configuration is that it can create new designs that are more complex than the previous ones.

In addition, the parametric configuration in 2022 allows parts to be easily placed into the assembly. You can also share model data and information with collaborators. Creating a much more productive design atmosphere.

Parametric configuration and 3D CAD

If you’re a designer, you may wonder how to incorporate parametric modeling into your design process. Parametric design software uses historical data and creates new designs based on that data. While it may seem complicated and time-consuming, this method will save you money and time on re-designing parts. Read on for some benefits and disadvantages of parametric design software. It’s the future of design, so choosing a program that suits your need is essential.

The first five points of a parametric configuration refer to its depth of features and robustness for each modeling style. The second three points refer to its versatility. Its ability to handle different models, manage complex assemblies and set up entire product lines. This can be defined as its scalability. Finally, UX, or user experience, measures the software’s ease of use and how difficult it is to learn.

A parametric model can have multiple configurations, and switching between them is easy. For example, a simple phone may need to have two different sizes. On the other hand, a CAD system that uses a file-based approach requires a single configuration table, which can get very complicated as more entries are added. Fortunately, parametric configuration is far less demanding than CAD software.

The most efficient CAD software will integrate both modeling approaches. Manufacturers integrating both into their design process have reported better speed and quality and increased focus on innovation.

Parametric modeling can save you time and money. It also allows you to capture your design intent and define the behavior of the configuration. It’s also much easier to make changes and modify parts of the model. It is an industry advantage for those who learn how to utilize parametric modeling software.

Designing with Parametric Configurators

Designers are discovering the incredible capabilities of parametric configuration software. This new approach to design allows them to configure objects based on defined parameters and functionality.

As a result, parametric configuration software can generate 3D renderings of custom items in real time. Many people have been surprised that parametric configuration software can make a CAD environment as creative as the human mind.

The design process using a parametric model is based on an algorithmic approach that clarifies the relationship between the designer’s intent and the design response. Parametric models enable designers to create a variety of variations of a single design, each with its own attributes. These attributes can be anything from materials, dimensions, and more. In short, parametric models allow designers to express their designs more sophisticated and dynamic ways.

A parametric approach also allows for a gradual complexity and detail resolution buildup while still retaining malleability. In addition, by generating alternative configurations, designers can continue adjusting the final design without requiring as much modeling and drafting.

Give more freedom to designers

Because of the flexibility of parametric design software, designers can create many variants, enabling continual design adjustments and generation of options. An excellent parametric designer will provide a clear and detailed model that is flexible enough to change.

It is also possible to capture the designer’s intent by automating the creation of models based on geometric parameters. A 2D model is much more challenging to capture the design intent. A parametric model allows the designer to scale 3D objects in real time, which improves productivity. It also opens up new design configurations. This technique will benefit engineers, architects, and designers alike.

What is the difference between parametric and direct modeling?

There are several key differences between direct and parametric modeling. Direct modeling is quick and flexible, making it ideal for casual users or designers exploring possible scenarios. Parametric modeling is more refined and suited for complex tasks that require more rigor and strict criteria for design aesthetics, performance, and manufacturing.

Direct modeling is best for early-stage conceptual designs and when the design is about form over function. The choice of parametric or direct modeling depends on your requirements and the size of your project.

Using the computer to design systems and objects is the best choice for complex projects. Parametric models allow designers to control all aspects of the design, and their parameters are automatically changed when the parameter changes. Giving creators the ability to maintain the design intent while still making changes in the model.

Parametric models also allow engineers to make changes with a minimum of effort, which saves time, energy, and money. Time and money that can be spent elsewhere to further your business.

Did you like this article on What is parametric configuration? Then read our entry on how companies are using 3D visualization and Augmented Reality.

How to Sell Custom Products Online in 2022

There are several benefits to creating custom products. If you provide excellent customer service, shoppers will likely use social media to share pictures. Make your product more appealing to shoppers by offering coupon codes or loyalty points for sharing photos. Alternatively, you can offer a freebie for the first 100 customers. By providing these freebies, your business will become more popular. But how to sell custom products online in 2022?

How to offer custom products online

There are many reasons to sell customized products on the Internet, but perhaps one of the most popular reasons is to create something unique for your customers. For example, customers will love the personalization if you want to sell a custom-made t-shirt or a baby blanket. You can add their names, pictures, patterns, designs, or numbers. These products can work with a wide range of materials, fabrics, or textures, which are very effective for bringing your brand to your customer’s doorstep.

To increase your sales and improve customer satisfaction, you can offer product customization, especially if you’re selling a high-ticket item. While a broad product range may be great for a consumer, most consumers won’t invest their money unless they know exactly what they’re buying.

This is where configurators come in handy. They allow potential customers to virtually inspect custom products before deciding, allowing them to make an educated choice. Using AR technology, your customers can view 3D images of the products, helping to alleviate any pre-purchase anxieties. It’s a great start on how to sell custom products online!

Building a custom c-commerce business

It is important to remember that customizing products is not an easy task. There are many factors to consider for a successful online custom product business. One of the biggest challenges is how to set up a site that can accommodate customization. Unfortunately, many websites cannot accommodate the number of customers who want to customize products. This may cause problems with hosting, server requirements, and budget constraints. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that you do not overlook this aspect of the online business.

When it comes to custom products, 3D configuration is critical. 3D configuration software allows potential buyers to see how a product will look before making a decision. The software is a virtual designer for each visitor to your eCommerce store. This virtual representation of your product is essential in attracting window shoppers, making the buying decision more straightforward, and ensuring your business succeeds. It’s an essential part of how to sell custom products online.

Designing your products online

Mass customization websites allow you to create custom products online, whether for yourself or a loved one, giving you complete control over what your custom products look like. You choose colors, shapes, and materials for your products, and they can be delivered to your door in a matter of days. You can add quotes or images if you have an artistic side. You can also choose a specific design for a particular gift, such as a coffee mug or even an engagement ring.

How custom products online can beat Amazon

How many Amazon products have you returned? If you’ve ever purchased a product from Amazon, you know how easy it is to be overwhelmed by their vast selection. And because they have everything, consumers have minimal ways to distinguish brands from one another. Most products have become commoditized under the Amazon brand. However, this weakness also allows you to build distinctive brands and carve out a competitive edge in your market.

Differentiate your store with custom online products

One way to differentiate yourself is to offer customized products. Customers increasingly look for perks and convenience when shopping online. For example, Amazon has an average of 17 hours of response time for emails, whereas small businesses can easily steal up to 33 percent of their customers. Providing a unique experience in-store is another way to separate yourself from the competition.

When building an eCommerce store, you’ll find that your biggest competitor is probably Amazon. So, how can you compete against Amazon? By utilizing uniqueness and exploiting their weaknesses. It is possible to compete with Amazon, but you will have to learn to differentiate yourself from the „everything“ retailer.

Social Content for Customized Brands

How to sell custom products online? By leveraging social capabilities of course. One of the most powerful advantages of small brands is the ability to create high-quality social content. This can be particularly valuable in the age of mobile devices. Today, many shopping journeys include social media. Smaller brands can create more appealing social content and stand out from large retailers by offering a higher-quality experience. They can then turn those social users into buyers.

Selling custom eCommerce products

There are many benefits to selling custom eCommerce goods online. Customized items appeal to the customer because of their personal touches. Today the public says that 45% of online shoppers would rather purchase items from websites with customizable products than from those that don’t. In addition, they feel more connected with the brand when they order a custom product. But what are the drawbacks?

Did you like this article on how to sell custom products online? Then read our article about how 3D customization on Shopify can boost sales!

5 Features of Expivi’s 3D Configuration Platform You Didn’t Know About

The Expivi 3D Configuration platform is rich in new features that are added every week to reach our goal to become the best and most flexible 3D configurator for eCommerce.

In many cases even our users don’t know what our 3D configurator is capable of, sometimes it’s because these are new features, and other times they didn’t know they needed a specific feature, while it has actually been around for a while. In this blog post, we’ll list 5 features of our 3D configurator that our users didn’t know existed.

1- Support for multiple stores with one 3D product configurator

We’ve designed our platform in a way that our 3D configurator could be easily integrated into any other web page. This can be achieved with the API embed code method or by using one of the native plugins or extensions for popular eCommerce platforms like Shopify, WordPress, BigCommerce, and Magento.

Because the 3D product configurator is set up on the Expivi platform (meaning from one central point), it is possible to have the very same 3D configurator integrated on multiple websites, even if each website is using a different eCommerce or CMS platform.

If you’re a brand with multiple distributors, resellers, and/or dealers, it’s easy to provide them with a 3D configurator that’s integrated into their website. A group of dealers or resellers, could create a 3D configurator together in a single Expivi account and use it on multiple websites. Another advantage is that changes in a 3D configurator will be published across all websites immediately, without having to make changes on every single website.

2- Drag and Drop in 3D

One of the features that you probably didn’t know was possible on the Expivi 3D configuration platform, is the drag and drop functionality, a feature that already existed in the early days of our platform. With this feature, you can literally drag and drop multiple 3D products into the 3D scene and even configure these products separately. Designing a living room or a standing booth would be a breeze. Another advantage would be to view the setup from every angle and see the tiniest details by zooming in will definitely give your customers an user experience they have probably never seen before.

3- Complete 3D eCommerce Platform

Expivi is not only a platform to upload your 3D models and setup configuration options, but it’s actually a complete 3D eCommerce platform as well. As mentioned before, you could integrate the 3D configurator with any other eCommerce platform by using plugins and extensions for e.g. Shopify, Magento, or WooCommerce, but you could use Expivi as a standalone webshop too.

By using Expivi as your eCommerce platform you have a feature-rich webshop system with lots of features that are essential for running a successful eCommerce business. Thanks to our template system, you could customize your Expivi store to reflect your brand’s style. The webshop functionalities come with your Expivi account, so no need to pay extra for it, saving you a lot of time and money to develop a webshop on e.g. Shopify, BigCommerce, or WooCommerce.

4- Allow Social Sharing for 3D Configurations

One of the most requested features from our users was allowing customers to share their 3D product configurations with their friends and family. This feature has been added to our platform in 2021 and has been widely used by the customers of our users.

On one hand, customers can share 3D configurations on e.g. WhatsApp or Facebook, resulting in extra organic traffic and free exposure for the webshop. On the other hand, it makes it easy to order the exact configuration by the person it’s shared with so that errors in the ordering process are reduced to an absolute minimum.

5- Apply Custom Images and Text on 3D Products

Most of our 3D configurator users offer products that have options to change available colors, materials, and parts. But did you know that it’s also possible to allow customers to personalize 3D products by uploading images and/or applying custom text on the 3D products?

Thanks to our image upload and text input features, personalizing 3D products with e.g. own logos, pictures and text make the shopping experience very personal for customers. Allowing them to see everything in 3D makes them even more involved with your products and will likely increase the conversion rate of your eCommerce business.

Last words on Expivi’s 3D configuration platform new features

In this entry we’ve listed 5 features (among many others) that a lot of our users didn’t know existed in Expivi’s 3D configuration platform. How many of these did you know were possible? If you’re curious about what more features there are that you might’ve missed, talk to our team and let us surprise you! Maybe there’s a feature that would help your business grow significantly.

Did you like this article about Expivi’s 3D configuration platform? Then have a read at how augmented reality is changing the eCommerce market