There are moments in life that call for particular reflection: birthdays with a zero, weddings, etc.
As I’m experiencing one of these moments, moving on to new professional adventures, I’d like to share my perspective on some topics we’ve been discussing on this blog the past three years.
How have the worlds of 3D and product innovation evolved since 2008?
3D
For sure 3D has become more mainstream, although the ultimate sign will be when kids use 3D software to design their Mother’s Day decorative vase gifts and print them—both actions from home. Some signs that we’re getting closer to widespread adoption, take LG’s recent Optimus 3D announcement. Optimus 3D is a smartphone with a glasses-free 3D screen and 3D recording camera.
Or what about 3D food printing? And I’ll bet you at least thought about asking Santa for a Sony 3DTV last year . . . but you probably changed your mind because the quantity and quality of 3D content isn’t ready yet. Rest assured it will be as soon as enough creatives have embraced 3D as their expression medium.
Innovation
I’m not sure innovation is something that can evolve, but I do feel comfortable saying that the processes to capture and manufacture innovation have progressed. With social computing platforms bleeding into the workplace, new fangled ideas are digitally captured, commented on, morphed into even crazier but ingenious concepts, and sometimes, when a business model can be agreed upon, produced and sold.
As Orange Labs Sociologist Dominique Cardon said at our recent Design in Life event, “Bottom-up innovations must be local and personal, and because they are personal, their inventors are driven to share with others. This is when the innovation process begins.” Personal innovations for the greater good.
With mobile technology conquering our hearts and pocketbooks, smartphones and tablets are slowly replacing the pulp-constituted idea notebook. Armed with them at all times, we can now plug our ideas directly into the digital grid, rather than first writing them down on that sheet of paper that may get lost with our socks.
Reality
I’d say how we consider reality has definitely changed. Virtual is no longer considered fake or marginal. We’re starting to trust it. So much that we’re opting to test agricultural innovations, the safety of new mobility concepts, and Dr. Seuss-like building designs as real-life dress rehearsals. Lifelike experience.
We’re using devices to augment our physical world experiences and obtain complimentary information, even as urban tourists in some cases. Digital has changed our notion of what’s really possible, and what you see is not only what you get. Your cereal box is not just about cereal.
PLM
When the likes of Oracle start taking interest in Product Lifecycle Management, I’d say we’re up to a new level. This technology is no longer just for IT geeks.
PLM is C-level strategic. And once the boardroom decides to go for it, designers, engineers, purchasing, marketers, the supply chain, consumers, and, IT geeks all find their place and solution within the PLM network. PLM, the united colors of making stuff.
—
I will miss you once I’m gone. But rest assured there are great people that will keep 3D Perspectives alive and feisty. And most important there’s YOU.
Like my High School Principal Dr. Jewel always said at the fall welcome assembly, “What you get out of Needham B. Broughton is a direct correlation to what you put into it.” So replace my alma mater with 3D Perspectives and go for the purple and gold. Oops, sorry, a pep rally slip. Just go for the gold.
I wish you the best and look forward to our next encounter, online or offline.
Warmest regards,
Kate
Twitter @KateBo
