PSFK’s professional-grade research platform, featuring access to our full-report library and on-demand research services.
Take me to PSFK iQThis PSFK Guide is a product manufacturing innovation report for organizations to reimagine product design and delivery, while improving sustainability and CX.
Driven by ongoing disruptions in the global supply chain, brands and retailers are bringing manufacturing and design processes closer to the consumer – both physically and digitally. New strategies help identify unmet needs in the marketplace, enable enhanced customization at scale, and bring products closer to their end consumers. These new manufacturing techniques save transaction costs, give companies more oversight on production, and power more ethical and sustainable supply chains.
To support companies as they consider new processes and initiatives to meet emerging consumer needs, the PSFK research team has identified the 5 key innovation strategies shaping future product design and manufacturing. Developed through the lens of technological advancements, digital behaviors, and sustainable business models, these trends highlight the innovative ways organizations are reimagining not only product design, but the final consumer experience as well.
For this product manufacturing innovation report, the PSFK research team has identified the 5 key strategies shaping future product design and manufacturing. Developed through the lens of technological advancements, digital behaviors, and sustainable business models, these strategies highlight the innovative ways organizations are reimagining not only product design, but the final consumer experience as well.
This product manufacturing innovation report provides:
This product manufacturing innovation report was developed by the same PSFK research department that since 2004 has provided trends-led innovation consulting advice to Apple, BMW, Facebook/Meta, Google, Microsoft, Samsung and Volkswagen.
Beyond its operational value, AI is writing movies, creating songs and acting as a creative assistant in terms of helping design teams generate prototypes and even select final concepts. For retailers and brands, AI and proprietary algorithms are being used to create a more collaborative and on-demand manufacturing model, where after generating initial specs or a design brief, AI-powered plans are handed off to human design teams for final input and production.
Digital Feedback LoopsTo better meet consumer needs brands and retailers are taking aggregated information about consumers and their purchasing tendencies to inform product design. By harvesting customer feedback through technology to inform the product development process, retailers are better positioned to accommodate consumers’ lifestyles and preferences, while learning how best to achieve a well-designed product that resonates with customers on a deeper level.
Made-To-Order ManufacturingRather than implement full-scale production runs that often result in unsold inventory, brands are considering the viability of pre-order and made-to-order manufacturing models. Companies are employing production methods like 3D printing, CNC milling and other on-demand techniques alongside new ways to sell to their customers. This approach reverses the mentality of instant gratification by asking them to register their buying intention before a product is made, while opening the door to feedback and bespoke customization.
Amazon’s Product Opportunity Explorer is a next-generation feature for ecommerce sellers that helps them better understand and respond in real-time to customer demand for new product ideas.
Knot Standard Creates Custom Clothes Through A Mobile AppCustom clothing company Knot Standard’s AI-powered, on-demand platform is revolutionizing traditional retail.
WAZP’s Decentralized Approach Reduces Supply Chain LengthThe 3D-printing pioneer has created an innovative, purpose-built, on-demand supply chain that makes 3D printed mass-production accessible, affordable, and impactful.