- ‘Makerspaces’ aim to democratize innovation and production.
- They are collaborative work spaces that provide access to a range of tools.
- They are increasingly involved in helping tackle global challenges.
Makerspaces are central to the vision of the Maker movement, which was hailed on its emergence a decade ago as part of the fourth industrial revolution. The Maker movement aims to democratize innovation and production by encouraging people to use new technology to share ideas and develop and produce their own goods locally.
Makerspaces are often community-based, but can also be organized by universities or businesses. They go by different names, including Fab Labs, hackerspaces and tech shops, but all provide access to a range of tools, including 3D printers, laser cutters, milling machines, wood and metalworking machinery, sewing…
