Are FabLabs Enough?

We're reading a fascinating and provocative article by entrepreneur Nick Pelling detailing his thoughts around the uses of 3D printing, manufacturing processes and creativity. 

 

Pelling feels that the simple Fablabs sprouting up all over are insufficient for inventors and entrepreneurs to truly prototype for mass production. Prototypes "for looks", just aren't good enough. 

 

We tend to agree; FabLab equipment is often quite basic and doesn't offer the capability to produce fine prototypes. But they can often produce "rough prototypes". In some cases a rough prototype is what you need to persuade an investor to provide the minimum funding to go to the next step, likely a real prototype. 

 

Via Nanodome (Hat tip to Sam E)