Change Management
The impact of AM on manufacturing will likely prompt a variety of disruptions. “Reaping the rewards of AM will require change, even transformation, in the business process from finance to procurement, training, design, and engineering,” said Teipel. “Organizations that recognize this early and begin to pave the way for the new knowledge and skill sets to support an AM-focused strategy will likely win bigger and faster.”
Changes over the last year – particularly during the production demands from the pandemic –have made it clear: AM has demonstrated its relevance in manufacturing. “3D printing is ready for prime time,” said Teipel. “The manufacturing industry will save billions of dollars in production costs while building stronger businesses that can withstand even a once-in-a-century crisis like the COVID-19. The pandemic has positioned top AM users to sprint to the crest of the trough created by the disease itself.”