3D printing is one of the most promising and futuristic technologies being used in numerous filed from medical science to space exploration. Guruprasad Kuppu Rao is the Director of Technology and Operations at Imaginarium, India's largest 3D printing company. As an accomplished industrial designer, Mr. Rao's industrial assignments include Titan, Tanishq, and Crompton Greaves, as well as holds 8 patents and 100 plus design registrations. He is a leader who believes learning is a life long process and has taught design at NIFT, IICD, IISc, JSSATE, and NTTF.A holder of double masters, with 29 years of experience encompassing Industry & Academia, currently also serves as a research scholar at IIT Bombay. We caught up with Mr. Rao to gain insight into his working philosophy and productivity secrets.
Location: Mumbai
Current Gig: Director of Technology and Operations at Imaginarium India Pvt.Ltd
One word that best describes how you work:: Playful Creation
Current computer: Apple Mac Pro
Current mobile device:: One Plus X
How do you think 3D printing is going to reshape the future?
3D printing is just another tool on the block. It is magical, magic wand being " ideas"...It helps to bring ideas to life quicker than ever before. In my opinion, 3D printing is going to shift the focus on manufacturing to design. It will take us back to the aesthetics of renaissance and feed customer needs for custom products.
What are the key insights you gained by being a pioneer of 3D printing in India?
3D printing can be used in every aspect of product creation and every sector, a potential still remains untapped. It is not just buying a technology but it about how we care and manage them. We have grown to be experts over the years.
What are the hardware and software you can't live without?
First Hardware I cannot live with out is my pair of spectacles :), Well, to list: Apart from my computer and phone, Rhinoceros, Solid Works, Fusion 360, Netfab, Magic, Mimics, Corel Draw, Blender and my Cannon camera.
What's your workspace setup like?
We have an open space office with transparent walls...thinking needs free space in the brain and our office is complementing this. It helps to collaborate seamlessly. In a way, it breaks all office stereotypes!
What's your best time-shortcut or life hack?
I do not believe in a lottery or short cuts !!!
How do you manage your schedules and tasks?
I extensively use Google Calendar to plan my schedules. As of projects, I work over time to complete tasks, planning buffers for me is difficult.
With several patents in your name, can you describe one key element in your personality that drove you towards success?
"Attempt and win" is my way. Set a goal and go after it...
How do you recharge?
Travel to a less famous calm place which is rich in heritage or a nature report, painting and most importantly cooking :)
What everyday thing are you better at than everyone else? What's your secret?
Sharing knowledge readily and the way it reaches any target audience. The secret is being sincere and keeps learning always...
What are you currently reading?
Medical Law and Ethics
What's your morning and sleep routine like?
I have very irregular schedules...To travel early and do some tasks I will often miss sleep and make it up on the weekends :)
What is the biggest lesson life has taught you so far?
Never assume anything, even if you are the CEO!
What's the best advice you've ever received?
Never stop learning and learning to change!
