Unlike other, more conventional processes, time and cost are determined more by the size and mass of the component than by complexity. Therefore, difficult prototypes are delivered in days, not weeks, and frequently at less expense than traditional methods. To oversimplify the benefits of RP, it is a technology that increases the availability of a prototype. With the speed, and cost effectiveness, RP delivers a model well within the constraints of project deadlines and budgets. With the acceptance of the statement that RP's key benefit is that it makes prototypes increasingly available, there is only one other benefit, and it is common to all prototyping methods.
Tangibility is the key benefit of any prototype.
The ability to see, hold, and touch a physical representation of a component's design turns the nebulous, ambiguous, intangible nature of blueprints and CAD data into something real. The physical, tangible model eliminates guesswork and assumptions. It clearly communicates the designer's intent and form. And, it can communicate the design to both technical and non-technical personnel. The design is also rapidly and easily communicated to everyone within your client's organization.