3D printing has been on the minds of many manufactures since the technology started to garner some major headlines last year. Consumers suddenly have the ability to create replacement parts on their own, which can have a major impact on the supply chain.

A recent article from Cerasis examined the potential impact that a wider adoption of 3D printing will have on the manufacturing industry. Small businesses and corporate departments can suddenly become "makers." With a computer, individuals are able to download and modify a template, click "print" and create a physical object that can be used.

"Although at present is nowhere near displacing the standard supply chain or the way we manufacture, 3D printing and the supply chain has the potential to transform certain parts of manufacturing over the longer term," the article reads. "In addition, instead of taking place in bespoke factories, 3D printing will create demand for smaller and more standard premises, opening up opportunities for developers and investors."

There are several different ways that 3D printing and the supply chain will change once there is mass adoption, This will include:

• Customized production
• "Pulling" by end customer demand 
• Local printing and distribution
• Short lead time
• Low transport costs
• Low carbon footprint.

The piece makes it clear that any kind of mass disruption of the manufacturing industry is still several years away, but it should be on companies radar. Once it takes place, organizations will suddenly find themselves in need of the right manufacturing business software that is able to manage this new form of manufacturing.