Successful approaches for implementing additive manufacturing, Robert Martens, Susan Fan, Rocky Dwyer
Robert Martens
Rotterdam Business School
Rotterdam University of Applied Science
Dordrecht
Netherlands
Susan K. Fan
College of Management and Technology
Walden University, Minneapolis, Minnesota
USA
Rocky J. Dwyer
College of Management and Technology
Walden University, Minneapolis, Minnesota
USA
Type of Paper: Research
Received: 28 December 2019 / Revised: 29 February 2020 / Accepted: 09 March 2020 / Published: 08 April 2020
DOI: 10.1108/WJEMSD-12-2019-0100
Purpose: The purpose of this qualitative, multiple-case study was to explore the successful strategies that managers of light and high-tech small and medium-sized manufacturing companies in the Netherlands, use to adopt additive manufacturing (AM) technology into their business models.
Design/methodology/approach: A qualitative, multiple-case study approach was used. The participants for this study consisted of executive-level managers of light and high-tech manufacturing companies in the Netherlands. Company documents were studied, and individual interviews were undertaken with participants to gain an understanding of the strategies they used to adopt AM technology into their business models.
Findings: Three significant themes emerged from the data analysis: identify business opportunities for AM technology, experiment with AM technology and embed AM technology.
Research limitations/implications: The findings of this study could be of advantage to industry leaders and manufacturing managers who are contemplating to adopt AM in their business models.
Originality/value: This study may contribute to the further proliferation of AM technology. Industry leaders may also gain a clearer understanding of the effects of 3DP on local employment. The results of the study may also work as a catalyst for increased awareness for manufacturing firm leaders who have not yet considered the opportunities and threats AM technology presents to their organizations.
Keywords: Additive manufacturing; 3D printing; Innovation adoption; Disruptive innovation; Supply chain management.
Citation: Martens, R., Fan, S. K. and Dwyer, R. J. (2020), "Successful approaches for implementing additive manufacturing", World Journal of Entrepreneurship, Management and Sustainable Development, Vol. 16 No. 2, pp. 131-148.