In this paper, we briefly discuss the evolving concepts of the digital economy, digital threads, and product realization (manufacturing) in the digital economy-enabled futuristic world. We posit that if we need to become self-sufficient, it is imperative that small and medium manufacturing enterprises need to be equitably integrated into the digital economy. We lead this discussion to the most important research questions related to representation, search, and composition to achieve such a realization.

Each "Communication Corner" essay is self-contained; however, they build on each other. For best results, before reading this essay and doing the exercise, go to the first essay "How an Ugly Duckling Became a Swan," then read each succeeding essay.

Using commonly recognized colorful words, phrases, and quotations can enhance the interest and impact of an expository (non-fiction) text. However, pay close attention when doing so, because those words, phrases, and quotations don't always mean what you might think they mean.