1 Time to market is speeding up thanks to 3d printing, prototype can aesely be modified trough the testing process
2. The relationship with the customer shoulb be personal an direct to increase satisfaction if you make customized product according individual needs.
3. This will always be a question and desicion of the producer to protect or not protect. IP world is a business on it self . If the investments are low you’ll beter do without IP. you can on the other hand still be in controle is your design is printed on your own printer or at a reasonably protected site such as shapeways.
4. This is a tricky one. normally a product introduction is accompanied by certifications etc wich cost a lot. Now you can do what ever you like. You should always warn that you are not responsible for own productions. The old industry protect itself for damages etc, in the new economy your are the only one responsible!