In its guideline , the Association of German Engineers (VDI) addresses the individual steps along the process chain. It provides general basic information on the process and presents typical legal pitfalls in detail. Specifically, the VDI addresses issues such as contracts and liability, data protection, and data ownership. The publication – the print version of which is available for just under €100 – is aimed at attorneys, as well as engineers and service providers.

Back in 2017, Allianz Versicherung pointed out that 3D printing not only offers great opportunities but also poses risks for industry: What it has done is widen the circle of contributors involved in producing final products, but this also means, for example, that the circle of liability has also widened. Allianz therefore advises that companies using the technology should check they have insurance coverage for product liability and product recalls.