A new market study from Jon Peddle Research concludes that the Modeling and Animation market will continue to grow over the next 5 years, from a current valuation of $219M to $328M in 2013.  Why?

Beyond traditional industries, new markets are also opening up for more casual users of 3D modeling and animation tools, defying barriers posed by high cost and complexity. Free 3DM&A tools are becoming available and millions of copies are being downloaded every year suggesting a pent-up demand for easy-to-use 3D tools. In addition, there is a hard core of hobbyists and casual users who are using 3D tools even though the learning curve is steep. New distribution models are just now opening up including online worlds, YouTube, MyToons, the Daz communities, and more. By the end of this decade, new growth will come in mainstream markets, the report says.

via The 3D Modeling and Animation Market Shows Resilience says New Study by Jon Peddie Research | SYS-CON CANADA.