3D Printing in Greater Manchester
An investigation into place-based influences on technology adoption: a case study of 3D Printing in Greater Manchester.
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This research explores the factors influencing the adoption of additive manufacturing (3D printing) in the Greater Manchester region.
It draws on evidence from:
- academic literature
- in-depth interviews with businesses adoption 3D printing
- insights from organisations supporting the local 3D printing ecosystem.
The study sets out 4 key principles that can be applied across different regions and technologies to enhance technology adoption, drive growth, and boost productivity.
1. A place-based approach to digital adoption that leverages existing regional technological strengths and boosts contextualised specialisation.
2. A human centric approach to digital tech adoption where skills play a key role.
3. A comprehensive policy perspective that supports tech adoption at each stage of the adoption process.
4. Showcasing and demonstrating the usages and value of 3D printing and other advanced digital technologies could encourage cross sector adoption.
Authors
- Mabel Sanchez Barrioluengo
- Silvia Massini
- Peiyu Zhan
- Wanyu Zhang
- Abdalla Omar
Acknowledgement
The authors gratefully acknowledge the insightful feedback provided by DSIT officials in the Strategic Evidence Team, which has significantly enhanced the focus and readability of this report. Special thanks are extended to all interview participants, whose perspectives and expertise on 3DP adoption have been invaluable in shaping the analysis and inspiring the recommendations offered here.
Similarly, we express our gratitude to Claire Scott from Made Smarter, Alan Dempsey and Carl Diver from PrintCity, and Luke Davies from the Henry Royce Institute for their availability and openness during the interviews, which contributed to develop the case of the 3DP ecosystem in Greater Manchester.
Finally, Murat Kilic and Wajira Mirihanage have been integral members of the technology expert board and have reviewed the final version of the report. Silvia Massini and Mabel Sanchez Barrioluengo also acknowledge funding from UMRI – University of Manchester and the Productivity Institute Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC). Any errors or omissions remain solely the responsibility of the authors