This paper was accepted for publication in the journal CIRP Annals - Manufacturing Technology and the definitive published version is available at http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cirp.2016.05.004© 2016 CIRP. The past few decades have seen substantial growth in Additive Manufacturing (AM) technologies. However, this growth has mainly been process-driven. The evolution of engineering design to take advantage of the possibilities afforded by AM and to manage the constraints associated with the technology has lagged behind. This paper presents the major opportunities, constraints, and economic considerations for Design for Additive Manufacturing. It explores issues related to design and redesign for direct and indirect AM production. It also highlights key industrial applications, outlines future challenges, and identifies promising directions for research and the exploitation of AM's full potential in industry

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to provide a personalised view by the Editors of the Rapid Prototyping Journal.Design/methodology/approach: It collects their years of experience in a series of observations and experiences that can be considered as a snapshot of where this technology is today.Findings: Development of these technologies has progressed according to application, materials and how the designers have applied their creativity to such a unique manufacturing tool.Originality/value: The paper predicts how the future of additive manufacturing will look from the perspective of three key elements: applications, materials and design.