The program is available for designers who have uploaded at least five models on CGTrader with an average publishing score of five or more, with advanced functionality unlocked through a tier system. Open up the Marketplace Statistics section of the Analytics page and you’ll see a list of the top 100 keywords that people search for on the site. The score is determined by an algorithm that aggregates things like searches, sales and other metrics. The number one keyword, for example, is “people,” and you can keep clicking to find out more – how many models are available with that keyword, or the average listing price vs. the average sales price.
Subcategories show you more specific, less common keywords, and model tags show even more narrowly defined searches such as “yacht” or “cosplay.” What is especially helpful is a section called Deficit Keywords, which displays commonly searched keywords with no or very few results for them. This shows designers where there is a niche that needs filling – so if you design a 3D printable yak, for example, you might do pretty well in sales.
In addition to learning what types of models are most popular, users can also find out about pricing trends, to help them avoid over- or underpricing their models. Are people buying high-quality, high-priced models of a particular category, or are they buying more low-priced, low-quality models? The tools let you get very specific in your search for what people are buying – say you’re thinking about modeling a truck, for instance. The tool allows you to go in depth and learn what the most well-performing types of trucks are, whether that’s a dump truck or an ice cream truck – or if it’s a truck part, such as a steering wheel.
A few of the less common keywords.
There’s also a My Models section where you can learn how your own models are performing, and a Model Improvements section that lets you know how you can improve your models to make them perform better.
CGTrader built the database by synthesizing more than six years’ worth of data from the site. In doing so, the team learned some interesting statistics about what kinds of models are being searched and sold. Jewelry has been trending highly, which isn’t a huge surprise; what was surprising to the team was how popular religious items, like cross pendants or Buddha statues, are. Home accessories are very popular as well, such as statues, wall hangings and busts. 3D printable cosplay, Halloween costumes, masks, helmets, and so on are also high up on the list.
The Analytics tool should be extremely helpful for anyone looking to build a successful business through 3D model design. It’s in-depth yet easy to use, and it’s interesting to look at even if you’re not a designer. You can check out Analytics here.
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