What are the disadvantages of 3D Printing?

[ralphzoontjens]

3D printing finds its value in prototyping and special, customized parts. Good quality can be reached but it is labor and time-intensive.
The main challenge right now is that 3D printing is not as plug-and-play as it may seem, and there is hardly any standardization, so a lot of expertise is delegated to the end user.

[alexrawlins]

I agree that the printing is still not plug and play, it requires a bit of monitoring that is not needed in many other manufacturing processes. It is certainly a significant change in materials and build options, and perhaps more importantly a standard file representation across manufacturers for digital use.