Not exactly a new phenomenon
The concept of on-demand delivery isn't new in industries outside publishing. Retailers of hard goods have relied on "just in time" (JIT) delivery for years. For example, a key factor in the success of retail giant Wal-Mart was the linking of its in-store cash registers to a centralized inventory control system, allowing the retailer to replenish inventory in direct proportion to sales. However, retailers' JIT systems depend on having readily-available previously manufactured goods located in a central warehouse. POD takes the concept to the next level: The product is manufactured and shipped on demand, practically eliminating the need for inventory, warehousing expenses and many other costs associated with bringing books to market.