3D Systems (DDD): Will The String Of Launches Drive Growth?

Premium provider of 3D products and services, 3D Systems Corporation (NYSE:DDD) , has pioneered the development of a direct 3D scan-to- computer-aided design (“CAD”) solution with the launch of a 3D scan-to-SOLIDWORKS software-Geomagic for SOLIDWORKS. This is the third major product launch made in the second quarter of 2016 after GibbsCAM 2016 software and ProJet MJP 2500 Series, reflecting the company’s strategy to rake in higher profits and garner greater market traction.

A Revolutionary Offering

A registered trademark of Dassault Systèmes, SOLIDWORKS is a computer program specializing in solid modeling CAD and computer-aided engineering (CAE). 3D Systems’ latest offering has been engineered to offer end-to-end solutions for industrial designers and engineers, capable of processing 3D scan data precisely in the SOLIDWORKS environment.

3D Systems is bullish about the speed and accuracy prowess of its Geomagic for SOLIDWORKS software and believes this will greatly simplify scan-to-CAD workflow of professionals. Some of the noteworthy features of Geomagic include scan registration, automated smoothing, mesh editing, surfacing and automated “Smart Selection” tools.

This state-of-the-art software can dramatically reduce the time needed for rebuilding CAD data which in turn can be used to accelerate design cycle, create innovative offerings and maximize profits. Also, Geomagic is compatible with multiple 3D scanners including FARO, Nikon, Artec and 3D Systems, to name a few.

As a matter of fact, 3D measurement and imaging technology company, FARO Technologies, has already included Geomagic for SOLIDWORKS as one of the two exclusive bundles offered with its recently released FARO Design ScanArm. It will also be available as an integrated offering for customers of Artec 3D, a professional handheld 3D scanners provider. We believe such collaborations will boost market traction of the software.

3D SYSTEMS CORP Price

3D SYSTEMS CORP Price | 3D SYSTEMS CORP Quote

Why a Zacks Rank #5?

Despite the series of product launches over the past few quarters, 3D Systems has been experiencing unfavorable broader market conditions that have hit its financial performance. Continuing with that, the company came up with another dismal earnings in the third quarter. During the first quarter of 2016, revenues from 3D printing products and services were significantly undermined due to continued challenging market conditions that impacted customers' capital investment cycles and demand across all geographies.

The company’s products revenue decreased 11% year over year in the reported quarter, hurt by lower printer sales. Also, intensifying competition and currency fluctuations are adding to the company’s woes, without any immediate respite in sight.

3D Systems currently carries a Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell). Some better-ranked stocks in the broader computer & technology sector include Key Tronic Corp. (NASDAQ:KTCC) , TransAct Technologies Incorporated (NASDAQ:TACT) and Zix Corporation (NASDAQ:ZIXI) . Each of these stocks holds a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).