How 3D printing technology changes the rules of the game
- 5 September 2016
- journal article
- e conceptual-paper
- Published by Emerald in Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management
- Vol. 27 (7), 932-943
- https://doi.org/10.1108/jmtm-01-2016-0010
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this paper is to present several insights on how disruptive technologies potentially impact the eco-performance of entire supply chains, by providing performance improvements compared to existing technologies, enabling more efficient manufacturing methods and affecting the entire structure of the supply chain. Design/methodology/approach To illustrate the authors’ position, a case from the construction sector is presented, for which the feasibility and impact of 3D printing technology has been studied. The empirical study focuses on the effect of the use of 3D printing technology on the building supply chain, aimed primarily at manufacturing companies in construction, but including suppliers, architects and designers as well. Findings 3D printing of concrete potentially provides several improvements in manufacturing performance, such as a shortening of lead times, integration of functions and allowing for reduced material usage, therefore possibly turning production steps within the construction supply chain obsolete while also reducing logistical and production efforts. Research limitations/implications Whether disruptive technologies other than 3D printing have a similar potential is unknown. Though the case study shows the potential of disruptive technologies in impacting supply chains, the authors realize that more empirical work is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms. Originality/value The originality of this paper lies in relating disruptive technological advancements to manufacturing technologies and transitions of supply chains’ eco-performance.Keywords
This publication has 21 references indexed in Scilit:
- Does a firm’s innovation category matter in practising eco-innovation? Evidence from the lens of Malaysia companies practicing green technologyJournal of Manufacturing Technology Management, 2016
- Service supply chain environmental performance evaluation using grey based hybrid MCDM approachInternational Journal of Production Economics, 2015
- Environmental performance indicators: a study on ISO 14001 certified companiesJournal of Cleaner Production, 2015
- Business impact of Web 2.0 technologiesCommunications of the ACM, 2010
- Green technology and eco‐innovationJournal of Manufacturing Technology Management, 2010
- Freeform Construction: Mega-scale Rapid Manufacturing for constructionAutomation in Construction, 2007
- Patterns in the evolution of product competitionEuropean Management Journal, 1997
- Disruptive technologies: catching the waveLong Range Planning, 1995
- Innovation: Mapping the winds of creative destructionResearch Policy, 1993
- Technological Discontinuities and Dominant Designs: A Cyclical Model of Technological ChangeAdministrative Science Quarterly, 1990