3D Printing as a Direct Manufacturing Technology? A Scenario Analysis of Potential Future B-to-C Market Constellations

Bachelor Thesis from the year 2015 in the subject Business economics - Trade and Distribution, grade: 2,4, Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences (Faculty of Communication and Environment), language: English, abstract: 3D printing technology recently receives much attention in mass media. While it is sometimes entitled as a technology that can bring a third industrial revolution it is not to deny that it will have huge influence on traditional manufacturing. Furthermore this technology comes along with a huge disruptive character since it nowadays demonstrates its potential for the future of consumers. The dissemination of personal 3D printers and further 3D printing technologies involves a variety of opportunities and challenges. This thesis analyses the implications of 3D printing technologies on the B-to-C market focusing on possible future market constellations and conflict situations using the instrument of scenario technique in order to think ahead the future of the depicted area.