I’ve been honestly amazed at most designers’ lack of knowledge about rapid manufacturing techniques; especially since the technology opens up so many possibilities for the future of the design profession. I read all this stuff about “Design Thinking” and how “business needs to listen to (industrial) designers”, yet I don’t see much reason for them to take the people in the profession seriously. Most designers, frankly, aren’t very well educated in the systems and methodologies favored by corporations. Many designers barely have an understanding of the basic science and engineering that makes many of their designs possible. Yet the indignation among the design community is palpable. And for me, at least, it can reach embarrassing levels. So much so I find myself distancing myself from it.

An interesting thread by csven with a lot of discussion about rapid manufacturing techniques, mass customization, and more! Read and join the discussion here