Fictiv Review: Pros, Cons and overview

About Fictiv

Fictiv Overview

Fictiv is a cutting-edge digital manufacturing platform that connects innovative companies with a global network of manufacturing partners. As a game-changer in the hardware development landscape, Fictiv addresses the critical needs of product teams, engineering departments, and manufacturing companies seeking to accelerate their product development cycles and reduce costs.

At its core, Fictiv serves as a bridge between ideas and physical products, offering a seamless solution for turning digital designs into tangible prototypes and production parts. By leveraging a vast network of vetted manufacturers, Fictiv enables businesses to access a wide array of manufacturing capabilities without the need for extensive in-house resources or long-term commitments.

The platform caters to a diverse audience, from agile hardware startups to established engineering teams in larger corporations. By providing instant quotes, automated design feedback, and quality-assured production, Fictiv empowers its users to bring products to market faster and more efficiently than ever before.

In today’s fast-paced product development environment, Fictiv stands out as a vital tool for companies looking to stay competitive and innovative. Its user-friendly interface, coupled with powerful backend capabilities, makes it an indispensable asset for those navigating the complex world of hardware manufacturing.

Fictiv’s Solution

Fictiv’s platform is designed with usability and efficiency at its forefront, offering a range of features that streamline the manufacturing process from start to finish. Here’s a closer look at what makes Fictiv a standout solution in the digital manufacturing space:

1. Intuitive Online Quoting and Ordering System
   Fictiv’s platform boasts an easy-to-use interface that allows users to upload their design files, select materials, and receive instant quotes. This feature eliminates the time-consuming process of traditional quoting, enabling rapid decision-making and project initiation.
2. Automated Design for Manufacturability (DFM) Feedback
   Upon file upload, Fictiv’s system provides automated DFM feedback, highlighting potential issues before production begins. This proactive approach helps users optimize their designs for manufacturing, reducing errors and saving time and resources.
3. Diverse Manufacturing Capabilities
   Through its global network of partners, Fictiv offers access to a wide range of manufacturing processes, including CNC machining, 3D printing, injection molding, and more. This versatility allows users to choose the best production method for their specific needs.
4. Quality Assurance and Traceability
   Fictiv implements rigorous quality control processes across its network, ensuring consistent, high-quality results. Users receive detailed inspection reports and certifications, providing full traceability and peace of mind.
5. Collaborative Project Management Tools
   The platform includes real-time order tracking and collaboration features, enabling teams to manage projects efficiently and maintain clear communication throughout the manufacturing process.
6. Expert Design and Engineering Support
   Users have access to Fictiv’s team of manufacturing experts, who can provide valuable insights and recommendations for design optimization and material selection.

Why Choose This Platform?

In the competitive landscape of digital manufacturing platforms, Fictiv distinguishes itself through several key advantages:

Speed and Efficiency
Fictiv’s platform is engineered for rapid turnaround times, enabling users to move from design to prototype or production parts in a matter of days. This speed is crucial for companies looking to iterate quickly and beat competitors to market.

Unparalleled Flexibility
With access to a diverse range of manufacturing processes and materials, Fictiv offers unmatched flexibility. Users can easily switch between different production methods or materials without the need to source new suppliers, streamlining the product development process.

Guaranteed Quality
Fictiv’s rigorous vetting process for manufacturing partners and standardized quality control procedures ensure consistent, high-quality results across all projects. This reliability is essential for companies that cannot afford errors or delays in their product development.

Scalability for Growth
Whether a company needs a single prototype or a production run of thousands of parts, Fictiv’s platform can accommodate varying volumes. This scalability makes it an ideal solution for businesses at different stages of growth.

Cost-Effectiveness
By leveraging a distributed manufacturing model, Fictiv can offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality. This approach allows companies to optimize their manufacturing spend and allocate resources more efficiently.

Manufacturing Insights and Expertise
Fictiv doesn’t just provide manufacturing services; it offers access to a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Users can tap into insights from manufacturing specialists, helping them make informed decisions and optimize their designs for production.

Fictiv’s Ideal Users

Fictiv’s versatile platform caters to a wide range of users across various industries. Here’s a breakdown of the ideal user groups and how Fictiv meets their specific needs:

User Group	Specific Needs	How Fictiv Excels
Hardware Startups	Fast prototyping, cost-effective low-volume production	Rapid turnaround times, competitive pricing, design feedback
Product Design Firms	Quick iteration, material exploration	Diverse manufacturing options, expert material recommendations
Engineering Teams in Large Companies	Augmenting in-house capabilities, managing complex projects	Scalable production, project management tools, quality assurance
Medical Device Manufacturers	Precision parts, quality documentation	Tight tolerances, detailed inspection reports, material certifications
Aerospace and Automotive Industries	Complex geometries, advanced materials	Access to specialized manufacturing processes, expert engineering support
Consumer Electronics Companies	Rapid prototyping, bridge to production	Fast turnaround for prototypes, scalable production capabilities

Fictiv’s platform shines in scenarios that demand:
– Rapid prototyping and iterative design processes
– Production of complex part geometries
– Use of specialized materials or finishes
– Meeting tight deadlines with fast turnaround times
– Scaling from prototype to low or medium volume production

By catering to these diverse needs, Fictiv positions itself as a versatile and indispensable tool in the modern product development ecosystem, enabling companies of all sizes to bring their innovations to life efficiently and effectively.

Features

Core Features of Fictiv Software

Reporting Capabilities

Fictiv provides robust reporting features that allow users to track various metrics related to their manufacturing processes. Some key metrics tracked include:
– Production status and timelines.
– Quality control metrics (defects, inspection results).
– Cost analytics for parts and projects.
– Usage analytics to optimize future sourcing.

The platform offers real-time visibility into production status, including photo documentation of parts during inspections, ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the manufacturing process.

Integrations

Fictiv seamlessly integrates with various tools to enhance its functionality. Key integrations include:
– CAD integrations for direct upload of designs (supports multiple CAD formats).
– Project management tools like Asana and Trello for workflow management.
– ERP systems for streamlined order processing and inventory management.
– Communication tools like Slack for real-time updates and collaboration.

Mobile Apps

Fictiv offers a mobile app that allows users to manage their orders and communicate with teams on the go. Key features of the mobile app include:
– Instant notifications on order status changes.
– Access to production transparency and real-time updates.
– Ability to upload designs directly from mobile devices.
– Communication features for feedback and queries.

The app is designed for both iOS and Android platforms, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of users.

Single Sign-On SSO

Fictiv supports Single Sign-On (SSO) for enhanced security and user convenience. It is compatible with platforms such as:
– Google Workspace.
– Microsoft Azure Active Directory.
– Okta.

This feature allows users to access the Fictiv platform using their existing corporate credentials, simplifying the login process and improving security measures.

Automation Features

Fictiv incorporates automation in several aspects of the manufacturing process, including:
– Automated Design for Manufacturability (DFM) feedback, providing users with instant alerts on potential design issues.
– Automated quoting processes that deliver pricing in real-time or within an hour for complex parts.
– Workflow automation that streamlines communication and order processing.

Examples of automation include the automated generation of inspection reports and manufacturing updates sent to users.

Security Measures

Fictiv prioritizes security through various measures:
– Compliance with ISO 9001:2015 standards for quality management.
– Data encryption during transmission and storage.
– Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments.
– Non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to protect sensitive information.

These measures ensure that customer data and proprietary designs are kept secure throughout the manufacturing process.

API Capabilities

Fictiv offers API capabilities that allow for customization and integration with other software tools. Key features include:
– Access to manufacturing data for reporting and analytics.
– Ability to automate order placement and tracking.
– Customizable endpoints for specific business needs, facilitating tailored integrations.

This flexibility allows businesses to enhance their workflows and improve operational efficiency.

Deployment Options

Fictiv is primarily a cloud-based platform, offering the following deployment options:
– Web application accessible from any device with internet connectivity.
– Mobile application for on-the-go access.

Pros:
– No installation required, allowing for quick access.
– Regular updates and maintenance handled by Fictiv.
– Scalability to accommodate growing business needs.

Cons:
– Dependence on internet connectivity for access.
– Potential data privacy concerns associated with cloud storage.

Pros and Cons of the Product

Pros:
– Fast lead times with instant quoting and production transparency.
– High-quality manufacturing with no minimum order quantities.
– Comprehensive support for various manufacturing processes (CNC, 3D printing, injection molding, etc.).
– Strong integrations with popular tools and platforms.

Cons:
– Some users may find the learning curve steep for accessing advanced features.
– Pricing may vary significantly based on complexity and material choices, potentially leading to unexpected costs.

In conclusion, Fictiv software provides a comprehensive solution for custom manufacturing, with a focus on transparency, automation, and integration. Its robust feature set makes it suitable for businesses looking to streamline their manufacturing processes.

Location

Locations and Branches

Location Type	Address	Country
Headquarters	168 Welsh St, San Francisco, California, 94107, United States	USA
Branch	1001 N. Central, Suite 802, Phoenix, AZ 85004	USA
Branch	5-6 Building 11, Changhua Creative Park, Panyu District, Panyu, Guangdong 511495	China
Branch	Bengaluru (Specific address not provided)	India
Branch	Pride House Office No.402, 4th Floor, Ganeshkhind Road, Pune 411016	India
Countries	USA, Mexico, India, China	Multiple

History and Team

Year Founded:

Fictiv was founded in 2013.

Number of Employees:

Fictiv currently has approximately 200 employees.

Team:

The founders of Fictiv are as follows:

Name	Position
Dave Evans	Co-founder & CEO
Nathan Evans	Co-founder & CXO

About the Founders:
– Dave Evans: As the Co-founder and CEO, Dave leads the company’s vision to provide world-class manufacturing capabilities. He previously worked at Ford’s Silicon Valley Innovation Lab and holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University.
– Nathan Evans: Co-founder and CXO, Nathan plays a critical role in shaping the customer experience and strategy at Fictiv.

Additional Information:

Fictiv operates as a digital supply chain services company that simplifies the sourcing for custom manufacturing. It offers solutions such as CNC machining, 3D printing, injection molding, and urethane casting, employing artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to streamline manufacturing processes. The company is headquartered in San Francisco and operates globally with several centers of excellence.

Fictiv aims to empower innovators by making the manufacturing process faster, more efficient, and less risky.

Pricing

Fictiv Pricing Plans

Plan Name	Description	Features	Pricing Structure
Essentials	Designed for beginners looking to reduce development cycles.	– Instant quotes – Free order tracking – Chat support for assistance	Free
Premium	Aimed at companies needing to streamline sourcing with team collaboration.	– Includes all Essentials features – Team workspace for collaboration – Custom pricing based on needs	Custom pricing based on needs
Enterprise	Tailored for large organizations focusing on complex manufacturing needs and accelerating product introduction.	– Preferred pricing – Enhanced quality management – Digital tools including 2D drawing generation – Secure+ IP protection – Access to advanced quality services and program management	Custom pricing based on needs

Fictiv operates on a marketplace model that combines elements of SaaS by providing a platform for custom manufacturing solutions. They do not have fixed pricing but rather generate costs based on the specific parts and products requested by customers. This flexibility allows them to cater to a wide range of industries, including robotics, aerospace, medical, and consumer products.

Key Features of Fictiv’s Business Model:

• On-Demand Manufacturing: Customers can source customized parts as per their specific needs.
• No Minimum Order Quantities: This allows individuals and small businesses to use their services without significant upfront investment.
• Global Supply Chain Management: They provide access to a Fortune 500-class global supply chain, enhancing resilience and flexibility.
• Quality Assurance: Fictiv emphasizes quality with ISO certifications and on-site quality inspections.

Summary

Fictiv’s pricing model is flexible and tailored to meet the needs of diverse clients, from individuals to large enterprises. Their plans are designed to facilitate easy access to custom manufacturing with an emphasis on quality and efficiency, aligning with SaaS principles by providing a platform for users to manage their manufacturing needs seamlessly.

Funding and market

Industry:

Fictiv operates in the on-demand manufacturing industry, which focuses on providing efficient and scalable manufacturing solutions. It integrates artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to optimize the production process from prototyping to full-scale manufacturing.

Market:

• Market Description: Fictiv serves the hardware manufacturing sector, which includes industries such as automotive, industrial equipment, and consumer electronics. Their platform facilitates rapid prototyping and low-volume production, making manufacturing more accessible and efficient for businesses.
• Market Size: The on-demand manufacturing market is part of the broader manufacturing industry, which is expected to grow significantly, potentially reaching a global market size of $100 billion by 2025. This growth is fueled by the increasing need for custom parts and faster production cycles.
• Market Share: While specific market share figures for Fictiv are not publicly disclosed, the company is recognized as a leader in the space due to its innovative solutions and partnerships with leading manufacturers.

Funding:

Fictiv has raised a total of $196.5 million through 7 funding rounds. Below is a detailed table of their funding journey:

Date	Funding Round	Amount Raised	Notable Investors
05/05/2022	Series E	$100M	Activate Capital, Accel, Angeleno Group, Bill Gates, Cross Creek, G2 Ventures, Standard Investments, The Westly Group
02/17/2021	Series D	Not Disclosed	Not specified
04/15/2020	Loan	Not Disclosed	Not specified
03/05/2019	Series C	Not Disclosed	Not specified
05/08/2018	Series B-II	Not Disclosed	Not specified

Their most recent funding round, a Series E, raised $100 million in May 2022. This funding is being utilized to further expand their platform and capabilities.

Stocks:

Fictiv is a privately held company and is not publicly traded on any stock exchange such as NASDAQ or NYSE. Hence, it does not have a ticker symbol. However, accredited investors can invest in Fictiv through secondary markets like EquityZen, which allow the purchase of pre-IPO shares.

Latest news

Fictiv’s Latest News and Updates

Fictiv’s 2023 State of Manufacturing Report (PDF)

Fictiv released its 2023 State of Manufacturing report. The report highlights an 11-point increase in leadership focus on accelerating new product innovation (49% in 2023 vs. 38% in 2022). The survey data was conducted by Dimensional Research and features insights from hundreds of leaders in engineering, supply chain, manufacturing, and digital innovation roles.

You can access the full report here: Fictiv’s State of Manufacturing Report (PDF)

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2023 State of Manufacturing – Data, Trends & Insights Webinar

Fictiv CEO Dave Evans hosted a webinar alongside industry experts to discuss key findings from the 2023 State of Manufacturing survey. The eighth edition of this annual report surveys leaders from various industries, including robotics, medical devices, aerospace, and more. The webinar dives deep into challenges and opportunities the manufacturing industry faces in 2023.

Watch the webinar recording and learn more here: 2023 State of Manufacturing – Data, Trends & Insights

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Fictiv’s 2023 State of Manufacturing Report (Website)

This report surveyed over 240 leaders from various domains, emphasizing the integration of AI in manufacturing and workforce upskilling. Key takeaways include:

• 97% of respondents expect AI to impact product development and manufacturing.
• 85% have plans to adopt AI technologies.
• 62% are actively training their workforce to improve skills and productivity.
• 97% foresee a shortage of mechanical engineering talent soon.

Explore the full report and its key insights here: Fictiv’s 2023 State of Manufacturing Report

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Fictiv Newsroom and Press Releases

Fictiv raised $100 million in funding, backed by Bill Gates, to expand its on-demand manufacturing capabilities. The company also recently launched 10 new advanced 3D printing materials, showcasing its commitment to innovation in the manufacturing sector.

Stay updated on Fictiv’s latest announcements here: Fictiv Newsroom

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Additional News and Relevant Links

• Fictiv Announced a GlobalFlex Solution for Injection Molding in North America: Read More
• Fictiv Featured in Fast Company for Supply Chain Strategies: Read More

Search Trends

Search Volume Analysis for Fictiv

Table: Keyword Search Volumes and Associated Metrics

Keyword	Search Volume	Competition	Competition Index	Low Top of Page Bid	High Top of Page Bid	CPC
Fictiv	3,600	Medium	50	$17.86	$69.36	$42.56
Digital Manufacturing	880	Low	27	$5.95	$14.94	$24.11
CNC Machining	110,000	High	100	$1.00	$3.62	$2.63
3D Printing	550,000	High	100	$0.24	$2.25	$1.11
Injection Molding	18,100	Low	22	$2.32	$24.45	$20.41
Urethane Casting	880	Medium	59	$5.44	$52.41	$42.59
On-Demand Manufacturing	260	Low	21	$3.10	$24.41	$19.78

Analysis of Trend of Popularity

Fictiv’s search volume trends indicate varying degrees of popularity across its services and offerings. The following observations have been made:

1. High Volume Keywords:
   • 3D Printing has the highest search volume at 550,000 searches, indicating strong interest and demand in this manufacturing process.
   • CNC Machining follows with 110,000 searches, showing significant popularity and competition.
2. Moderate Volume Keywords:
   • Injection Molding (18,100 searches) and Fictiv (3,600 searches) suggest targeted interest in these services and the brand itself.
   • Digital Manufacturing and Urethane Casting both reflect niche interest with 880 searches each.
3. Low Volume Keywords:
   • On-Demand Manufacturing has a relatively low search volume at 260 searches, possibly indicating a lesser-known service or specific market interest.

Reasons Behind the Observed Trends

1. Prominent Industry Presence:
   • Fictiv has been actively publishing thought leadership content, such as “The Future of CNC Machining – 2024 and Beyond”, which has likely contributed to increased awareness and search volumes for CNC machining.
2. Innovative Product Launches:
   • The announcement of the GlobalFlex Solution for Injection Molding in North America has likely spurred interest in both the brand and the injection molding process.
3. Marketing Campaigns:
   • Fictiv’s promotional activities, including giveaways like the Formlabs Form 3+ 3D printer, have attracted attention and driven traffic to their website.
4. Specialized Resources and Tools:
   • Tools like Materials.AI and resource guides have positioned Fictiv as a go-to source for manufacturing solutions, boosting search volume for related keywords.

This structured analysis provides a detailed examination of Fictiv’s search volume trends and the underlying factors driving these trends.

Review

Customers

• Hykso: Hykso utilized Fictiv to produce sensor enclosures, accelerating their production timeline by 39 days. This highlights Fictiv’s capability to enhance production efficiency for time-sensitive projects.
• Animax Designs: Animax Designs partnered with Fictiv to manufacture high-quality parts that ensured durability for their animatronic creations. This demonstrates Fictiv’s ability to meet high-quality standards for specialized industries.
• Honeywell: Honeywell leveraged Fictiv to reduce lead times from 22 weeks to just 3 weeks, significantly enhancing their innovation capabilities. This showcases Fictiv’s role in drastically improving time-to-market for large-scale enterprises.

Alternatives

Company	Features	Pricing	Target Audience
Prototek	Digital manufacturing, CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, rapid prototyping.	Custom quotes based on project.	Engineers, Product Developers.
Tempo Automation	Software-based development tool for manufacturing, focuses on electronics manufacturing.	Custom pricing based on usage.	Electronics manufacturers, Startups.
Anvyl	Supply chain visibility platform, automates supply chain management.	Subscription model available.	Consumer brands, Retailers.
Quickparts	On-demand manufacturing, rapid prototyping, CNC machining, 3D printing services.	Pricing varies by project.	Product designers, Engineers.
Xometry	Digital manufacturing marketplace, offers various services from 3D printing to CNC machining.	Instant quoting available.	Businesses in need of custom parts.
Protolabs	Rapid prototyping, on-demand production in various materials, injection molding.	Based on project specifications.	Product developers, Engineers.
MFG	Manufacturing marketplace, connects buyers with manufacturers for sourcing services.	Custom quotes based on services.	Businesses looking for manufacturing partners.
PrintParts	Specializes in additive manufacturing, rapid prototyping, and production services.	Pricing based on project scope.	Engineers, Designers, Manufacturing firms.

This table outlines the main competitors to Fictiv, providing a clear comparison of their features, pricing, and target audiences. For further reading, you can explore Protolabs’ and Xometry’s offerings on their respective websites.

Comparing FlowHunt with Fictiv

Both FlowHunt and Fictiv excel in leveraging AI to streamline workflows—Fictiv with its AI-powered DFM analysis and real-time order tracking for custom manufacturing, and FlowHunt with its no-code AI flow builder and advanced chatbot integrations for automation. While Fictiv focuses on manufacturing efficiency, FlowHunt empowers users to design and deploy intelligent AI-driven tools effortlessly, providing unmatched control and customization. For those seeking automation and optimization across diverse industries, FlowHunt.io offers a flexible, user-friendly platform that meets modern AI needs without the complexities of coding.