Gemba NYC

A collaborative center for the advancement of industrial additive manufacturing

Over the past two years, I've been blessed to work with some of the most forward thinking, intelligent people in metal additive manufacturing. Their industry knowledge - and their willingness to hold my hand through the product development process - has given me a huge leg up in my own efforts.

More broadly, though, I believe that the metal AM industry does a poor job of working with independent designers. The product development process is unnecessarily opaque, and the industry's focus on a few huge clients has produced an IP framework that actively discourages new applications of metal AM.

I believe that there should be a new model for product development - one that offers more openness than most job shops can handle, and that doesn't require the big up-front investment required to build internal capabilities. A place where ambitious manufacturers and designers can learn the workflow and toolchain hands-on. A place for startups to test new software and hardware solutions for AM.

Gemba refers to the lean management practice of spending dedicated time on the shop floor, going through the manufacturing process step by step in order to appreciate, understand, and eventually improve it. I believe that hands-on involvement, collaboration across the additive supply chain, and an open perspective towards intellectual property is the best way for the industry to truly advance. Gemba NYC is the place for ambitious companies to do just those things.

At the moment, Gemba has no official home or launch date, but I'm working hard to change that. I'm also actively looking for founding partner companies - organizations that want a better way to establish or improve their additive manufacturing capabilities. If this sounds like you, sign up for updates below - or email me directly to get involved now.