Ratio Working Paper No. 262: Adopting 3D Printing for manufacturing – The case of the hearing aid industry
Sandström, C. (2015). Adopting 3D Printing for manufacturing – The case of the hearing aid industry. Ratio Working Paper No. 262.
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Sandström, C. (2015). Adopting 3D Printing for manufacturing – The case of the hearing aid industry. Ratio Working Paper No. 262.
3D Printing technologies have received extensive attention in recent years, but empirical investigations of how this technology is used for manufacturing are still sparse. More knowledge is also needed regarding how 3D Printing will affect the competitive dynamics between firms. This article explores how 3D Printing has been adopted for manufacturing and discusses under what conditions it might have disruptive effects for established firms. Drawing upon data from the global hearing aid industry’s adoption of 3D Printing during the period 1999-2007, this paper describes some of the benefits of using the technology, while also pointing out some of the challenges firms encounter in making this transition. The study shows that early adopters were exposed to more technological uncertainty related to choosing printers. All firms encountered operational challenges as 3D Printing required new skill sets, but the technology had little impact on the competitive dynamics of this industry. The paper also discusses how these findings apply to other industries where 3D Printing is currently emerging.
Sandström, C.
2015
Ratio Working Paper
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Stockholm: Ratio.
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Springer Cham.
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Recognizing the urgent need for continued scholarly attention to question notions of the mission economy, more than 20 scholars discuss the dangers of top-down/vertical approaches to industrial policy and draw attention to the progress of independent enterprise, entrepreneurialism, and market solutions in a sound economy and society. By critically examining mission-oriented innovation policies, using theoretical perspectives and empirical investigations, the book highlights both the mechanisms behind failed missions and alternative approaches. This is a must-read for policy researchers and policymakers alike.
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