3D printing blows up supply chain risk management

© Haiyin

Not literally, of course, that would be ridiculous; this long article on the implications of 3D printing from Supply & Demand Chain Executive argues that the take-up of the new technology fundamentally alters the role of risk management executives, given the possibility of reducing inventories, reducing product and supply chain complexity and shortening lead times. “It’s just a matter of time before 3D printing drives supply chain risk managers to either completely redefine what they do or find another career.” Much will depend on how successfully 3D printing techniques replace traditional manufacturing.