The growth of online sales has created the expectation among consumers that the next hot product can be manufactured and shipped immediately. A company’s ability to embrace these demand shifts quickly and adapt to changing consumer needs is a major competitive advantage. However, a company must also consider the costs associated with being reactive to these rapidly evolving consumer demand trends.

The golden age of software technology may soon collide with the future of efficient manufacturing. Additive manufacturing and 3D printing processes are now carving a niche by integrating computer programming and CAD with component manufacturing. According to the data from research firm Canalys, the 3D printing industry is forecasted to grow by 56 percent to $5.2 billion in 2015 and quadruple in growth over the next five years.