How accurately can we anticipate the future given today’s emerging technologies? Take 3-D printing. Our current model of producing goods is built around large-scale, globally linked manufacturing facilities with massive, complex lines of supply and delivery. What happens when 3-D printers overtake current models in terms of speed and cost effectiveness, allowing goods to be custom made for little cost by localized manufacturing hubs? Will we still need today’s manufacturing model?
Will 3-D Printing Cause Traditional Manufacturing to Collapse?
Local manufacturing networks will arise and low-end “beta” products will become the norm.
January 14, 2014