4D printing technology is an extension of 3D printing and offers improved quality, efficiency, and performance capabilities over conventional manufacturing techniques. 4-dimensional printing, also known as 4D bioprinting, active origami, or shape-morphing systems, uses the same processes like 3D printing to build a three-dimensional item through computer-programmed deposition of material in consecutive layers. 4D printing, on the other hand, adds the dimension of change through time. It is thus a type of programmable matter, in which the printed object reacts to environmental conditions and alters its shape as a result of the creation process.

Spend analysis or spending analysis is the collection, cleansing, classification, and analysis of spending data to reduce procurement costs, improve efficiency, and monitor control and compliance. Along with inventory management, contract management, and other processes, spend analysis is essential to running a business with large incoming and outgoing data which has monetary value.