3D printing has the potential to radically change businesses, starting with a big disruption to supply chains.
“Though direct printing in homes is an extreme example that may not manifest itself any time soon, there’s nothing to stop the same concept from eliminating the supply chain between businesses and manufacturers,” suggests a contributor to Forbes magazine.
Citing a report last year titled The Implications of 3D Printing for the Global Logistics Industry, the article claimed there could be massive reductions in shipping cargo volumes from “near-sourcing” to be expected, with “incredible” savings in transport costs.
Forbes also offered that there would be benefits from decreased lead times, less effort and time spent in development and re-tooling, and increased eased in customising products for the customer.
To read the entire article, click here.
For an explanation on how product development can be shaken up by 3D printing, watch this Stratasys webinar, currently available through Manufacturers' Monthly.
Image: Wikipedia