From http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/3D_printing
Additive manufacturing or 3D printing[1] is a process of making three dimensional solid objects from a digital model. 3D printing is achieved using additive processes, where an object is created by laying down successive layers of material.[2] 3D printing is considered distinct from traditional machining techniques (subtractive processes) which mostly rely on the removal of material by drilling, cutting etc.
A world without factories , or atleast not as many. Where the only thing to be bought is design and raw material . Direct from the creators to the consumers.
Imagine 2025 – with the latest generation of 3 D printers. You browse though online catalogs, select designs for furniture, accessories, clothes. Click buy and then print.
No more inventory planning ( except for the raw material wood,synthetic,cloth, plastic or better still an intermediate that can be done in all of these). Everything is bio-degradable in this new world of 3D printers.
That future is closer than you think! No more Made in China vs Made in USA
Everything will be made at home! designed by artists! delivered by Internet.
This is probably how they will shift manufacturing back to the rest of the planet to the First World, as both China and India are lagging behind in understanding the ramifications of mass produced 3D printers. 3D printers could do to factories what automatic washing machines did to laundry.
DECISION STATS 