3DRM is based in part on the following related assumptions:

• Innovation is not the only driver of success.

• Innovation is required throughout the entire product development process. It occurs during the intake (concept exploration) phase as a tool for breaking through current design, performance, material, or method boundaries and through each succeeding phase. During the final thrust stage construction and assembly innovation plays an important role in the development of new assembly methods. It is often called upon to counter the effects of incomplete or inaccurate designs that cannot be manufactured as delivered. With the recent rapid reduction in product development cycles, innovation is playing an increasingly important role in these later, nontraditional stages.

• Innovation is usually linked to high risk. However, there are times when innovation, or the adaptation of an innovative technology or solution, is the low-risk alternative. Conversely, there are times when a very basic, proven, or simple solution is the correct alternative, regardless of risk rating or the desire for a cutting-edge product.