When I use this term service bureau for jewelry I mean a company that makes clients wax models from the 3D file they provide. The idea that a service bureau would share these files online does not exist in the jewelry industry currently. All service bureaus are private as they can command much higher rates for keeping their client’s work private.
When I say a public service bureau I mean a company that shares clients designs on the Internet for all to see and download.
Public service bureau (PSB) possibilities:
- Over time a PSB would create a database of designs for other people to use.
- It would create a community of users using and improving other people’s designs.
- Such a service could create a competition among users further motivating people to use the service.
- Some people are will be motivated to send in files just to create an online portfolio.
- Some designers will just want their models used by others.
- If the public service bureau was efficient and could profit from the content of the users the price per model could be reduced or even free.
- Advertising and promotion expenses could be very low due to word of mouth.
The motivation for clients to send in files would need to be huge. Some people would see this as giving away their work, and never use a PSB. Others would see the service as a fun experience, and just plain valuable. The service will grow if the model price is low enough and there is a critical mass of users. It’s all theory now, but I am going to invest some serious time and money into testing these ideas.
This is not the same as a discount service bureau. Creating the models would be an experience for the users. People will upload design because it’s a fun experience. This is the same as tom sawyer convincing everyone painting the fence was fun. It’s win-win for everyone.
Similar working concepts:
- A lot of websites have users successfully uploading content (YouTube, Blogs, MP3 sharing sites, etc).
- It’s a little like watching the paper photos come out at the developer. (I’m dating myself)
- Some jewelry sites post pictures of past work.
- It’s like a watering hole. Free water for all, and it makes a good place for conversation.
- A PSB is like an Internet forum that content (writing, pictures, files, etc) is uploaded for the moment, but retains value over the years.
- I want to say it’s like a 3D model sharing service but I don’t see any great examples of this yet with models for manufacturing.
- This is like shoppers willing to have their buying habits recorded in exchange for discounts on products, AKA grocery store discount cards.
What would a public service bureau need to survive?
- An easy to use system of uploading and sharing files.
- A way to fight the tragedy of the commons problem.
- A way to keep out spammers.
- A well maintained forum for users.
- The service has to be fun to use.
I think a public service bureau set up right would really grow as it’s database and user base grows. Change a low enough price and users have no other option but to use the service. I see such a service being used by the Pro-Am jewelry making community.
Theory is great, but some people experienced in the trade have to be shaking their heads at me. Yes there are a lot of issues with this. This is why I am starting tests with the simplest part I can, a half-dollar size coin. Changes will be made on the fly. It’s going to be fun to get this concept off the ground so others can copy us. I just want to see this happen, and I am compelled to do it.