TY - JOUR AB - Purpose This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies.Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.Findings The paper derives and provides empirical insights regarding how additive manufacturing (AM) technology affects the industry. This study reveals how the implementation of AM in the rapid manufacturing (RM) of products made of metal has boosted productivity. These findings also demonstrate an increasing competitiveness of the early adopter small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) using RM.Practical implications The paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world’s leading organizations.Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format. VL - 33 IS - 6 SN - 0258-0543 DO - 10.1108/SD-03-2017-0048 UR - https://doi.org/10.1108/SD-03-2017-0048 PY - 2017 Y1 - 2017/01/01 TI - Reaping rewards of a new revolution: What additive manufacturing can offer businesses T2 - Strategic Direction PB - Emerald Publishing Limited SP - 23 EP - 25 Y2 - 2024/04/23 ER -