Hi,
As mentioned previously, I would be updating this tread with feedback ... so here we go:
1. File uploads
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Error messages:
I know that it has also been mentioned in other threads that the error messages are not clear enough, but as it is quite important, it's worth mentioning again. Also had some weird error messages with a couple of files which are OK, like:
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E-mails:
The e-mails with messages (error or OK) can become quite annoying when you are experiencing problems or when you are uploading several models. Are they really necessary ... wouldn't it be possible to show these messages in the "My designs” area
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Files being evaluated:
Just to mention again, it would be useful to have an overview of the files that are being evaluated, with an option to delete them. One could even add the error messages for the files that failed the evaluation
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Manifoldness and double vertices:
I upload my models in STL format and received quite some error messages regarding the manifoldness of the models. resolved it by removing double vertices with Meshlab. Weird thing however is that I uploaded the same files to a similar service (
https://www.printapart.com) and their they showed no issues and were printed without any problems.
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Projects and batch uploads:
My models tend to consist of several parts ... or one could call it a project with several models. Would it be an option to be able to define a project in "My Designs" and to upload several models to the project. A batch upload option would be useful in this case. The advantage would be that buyers just could order the whole project ... otherwise you would need to tell them which separate models he needs to ordered.
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2. Ordering process[list type=disc]
[*] Price: I would like to sell our models through the Shapeways service. However there is no way for me to make money on them. Would it be an option to add a margin per model, which for example could be saved to print new models or could be reverted back to a Paypal account. The book publish and print-on-demand service
Lulu.com has this option. Probably it would be worthwhile to take a look at it.
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3. Production & Delivery process[list type=disc]
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Delivery vs.order:
On the 8th of August I ordered 4 prints - 2 models in 2 different materials. On Friday the 15th, the goods came in, but it only contained 2 models in "White Detail". The ones which were orderd in "White Strong & Flexible" have not arrived yet. Nor did the first delivery contain any note about delayed delivery of the other models. A better communication regarding the order staus, either via the website or via the production partner would be helpfull.
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Packaging:
I must say that the packaging dissapointed me a bit. My models are small and contain fine details ... one of which broke off during the delivery process. The big foam parts which are inside the carboard box, put pressure on the models when the lid of the cardboardbox is closed by your production partner (noticed it, because the lid popped open after removing the tape).
Would like to suggest to seal the separate models in plastic bags and to place those in the carboard box, surrounded by foam chips.
The white cardboard boxes should also contain your logo ... the neighbors might think I ordered some adult items ...
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Production:
One of my models contained print errors. Parts were not fully printed. Does your production partner do a quality/sanity check before they ship the models to the customer?
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That's it for now and I hope it helps.
Regards,
Jeroen