3D Printing and Lean Manufacturing - 3D Printing: The Basics and Beyond - page 107

Defects : manufactured items might have flaws or are not up to specification. Traditional
manufacturing is the champion in this round. 3D printing has a problem with repeatability,
surface finish etc. There are still many flaws in this respect that need improvement. Final
result: 3D Printing - Traditional Manufacturing 4-1
This proves that 3D printing fits well into a modern manufacturing system that values
sustainability of resources as well as logistics and supply chain efficiency. There are two
factors inherent in 3D printing: customization and swift and easy improvements to a
product, not only during the design period but also after it has been introduced to the mar-
ket. 3D printing enables a much higher level of feedback from the customer. This is an
entirely new possibility for companies and their customers. Customization is still an open
field for exploitation, and it is very probable that we will see some interesting development
in this area.