As the world grows flatter, thermoforming has to be able to adapt to the fact that we are dealing in a global arena. To compete in a changing environment, thermoformers must look to alternative means to cut costs and focus on their core talents. Globalization is part of our future. How do we adapt and meet the challenges of the flat world? This presentation is an overview of the current status of the thermoforming process, both roll-fed and cut-sheet, with emphasis on the process controls and current technology.