# Shapeways: A Scalable 3D Printing Platform Developed Shapeways set out to make 3D printing accessible to consumers and designers around the world. Dawn Technology built the digital platform that turned this vision into reality. From the initial launch to the development of Shapeways Shops and the innovative Co-Creator Platform, we helped create a foundation for global growth. **Discovery**## A Start-up with Big Ambitions When Shapeways was founded in 2007, the company set itself an ambitious goal: launch a working platform for a limited group of users within six months and open it to the general public before the end of the year. To achieve this, Shapeways needed more than a software development partner. The company was looking for a team that could contribute to architecture, integrations and project management while helping shape the future of the platform. Dawn Technology was selected because of its combination of technical expertise, clear communication and a pragmatic, well-founded approach. From the outset, we became an integral part of the journey. **Design & development**## Technology Built to Grow Working closely with the Shapeways team, we developed the first version of the platform using a scalable architecture designed to support rapid growth, international expansion and high traffic volumes. Key platform features included: - Tools for 3D order processing and production workflows - Community functionality that enabled interaction between designers - Reviews and ratings for 3D designs - Blog and forum modules to facilitate knowledge sharing The next major milestone was the development of Shapeways Shops, enabling designers to create their own online stores and sell products directly to customers. The deadline was fixed: the platform had to be ready for launch at CES in Las Vegas. Together with the Shapeways team, we worked around the clock to deliver the functionality on time and successfully meet the launch date. In the years that followed, we continued to grow alongside the start-up, developing new features, improving platform performance and supporting international expansion. **Conclusion**## Innovation with Global Impact What began as a community platform for 3D designers evolved into an international manufacturing ecosystem serving more than one million customers worldwide. One of the most influential innovations was the Co-Creator Platform, which allows designers to offer configurable products that customers can personalise themselves. This transformed mass customisation from a concept into a practical reality and introduced a model that has since been adopted by companies around the world. Throughout this growth journey, we remained a strategic partner, supporting platform scalability, optimisation and continuous innovation. The collaboration was built on trust, quality and a shared ambition to push the boundaries of digital manufacturing. [Back to overview](/en/success-stories) Link copied to clipboard > ### What our clients say > > “In the beginning, we expected a great deal of flexibility from Dawn Technology. As a start-up, it is difficult to predict exactly what level of support and capacity you will need. What we appreciated most was that Dawn Technology grew alongside us. That was an extremely important factor in choosing a partner.” **Peter Weijmarshausen** CEO, Shapeways ## View similar success stories Health Lifestyle AI ## Our Smart Family Buddy: Reliable AI Coach Our Smart Family Buddy (OSFB) supports young families in Rotterdam South with a healthy lifestyle. Led by Erasmus MC and funded by NWO, the program utilizes a secure AI coach built by Dawn Technology. This coach guides expecting and young parents using reliable answers drawn exclusively from validated knowledge sources, never the open internet. Public Health Mobile CMS PHP Open Source ## CoronaMelder, GGD Contact & CoronaCheck The coronavirus pandemic was the first pandemic where IT played a crucial role in fighting the virus. The Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport developed several apps that played a key role in policy to prevent the spread. To achieve this, the ministry relied on expertise both within and outside the government, including ours. ### Looking for a Strategic Technology Partner for Your Digital Innovation? Like Shapeways, innovative companies need scalable platforms that connect technology, creativity and business growth. Leave your details and our specialists will be happy to explore the possibilities with you. ## Curious about our latest updates? Stay up-to-date in the digital landscape with our newsletter. Enrol and get the latest updates in your mail