The QWERTY keyboard is the standard that everyone uses today in the workplace and at home. However when examined further there is a very unique situation behind it's implementation. The keyboard was developed in 1874 and so named because of the first six letters on the top row of keyboards (Sherden, 2011). The development was by Christopher Sholes who worked with Remington & Sons to make them in mass (Sherden, 2011).
As time went on this device had numerous errors in the functions of it. These errors were identified by the competition and better typewriters/keyboards were made by them. However although they were better and increased operational speed significantly, they were not adopted because they were too expensive to implement in the workplace (Sherden, 2011). The workplace was the central operational area for this development so the machine had to meet the needs of the companies. The companies adapted these machines since the workers (typists) were most familiar with them.
Once touch typing was implemented and became the standard the other typewriters/keyboards that were developed lost ground (Sherden, 2011). With this in mind the device became the standard that is in use today. This affects 3D printing tremendously in the way that it used. If there were other printing apparatuses not using this format,the users would have to be trained and tested continually to ensure that device is being used properly. Otherwise there would be various operational problems and delays that would render the printer useless. The bandwagon approach photo in (figure 1.) below provides a perfect illustration of how the workplace would be without guidance.
Relevance
In 3D printing the users will have to adopt a significant practice that is practical and affordable. This will allow them to adapt the action to specific jobs such as medical, metal and scientific and other areas much cheaper. In doing so their printers and other systems will become cheaper to maintain and operate. Right now the average cost of the printer accomplish the previously mentioned tasks is $15,000.00. In this instance the average user could only afford the printer in the $300.00 to $500.00 range to support their everyday requirements. The costs are significantly dropping but the cost and quality for the normal person have not been met yet.
Influence
Technological - The cost of the machines are going to have be lower so that everyone can afford them. In tis way more people will have access and they can be used more effectively. As of right now they are mostly finding their use in corporate, medical and scientific environments as the costs acne be absorbed more easily.
Presently there are machines being produced in the $1000.00 to $ 3000.00 range but they are still too expensive. Advancements in technology and adaptation by more people will lower the price as time goes on. The technology is being adapted easily as the machines are getting smaller require less power to operate. This is especially important in testing and manufacturing.
Cultural - The 3D printing has contributed immensely to the countries that were not as well of as those that were developed. Mexico for instance has changed their operational procedures for mass printing. They have adopted the uses specific to their industries and changed the daily attitudes of the their populace. In this way the works will feel that the technology is a boon. This will cause their attitudes and thoughts of themselves in the workplace to be different. As they will feel that the they can compete in the marketplace with the U.S. and other leading countries.
Reference
Sherden, W. (2011). Best
laid plans: The tyranny of unintended
consequences and how to avoid
them. Santa Barbara, Calif.: Praeger.
them. Santa Barbara, Calif.: Praeger.
