August 2008
As a $550 Billion global business, the apparel industry has witnessed remarkable change in the last five years. Globalization, greater brand recognition and the development of new market opportunities have all generated a number of challenges including intense competition, pricing pressures and increased season/line complexity. These challenges are also complicated by the fact that the apparel supply chain is growing longer, more geographically diverse and, ultimately, more complex.
To achieve real competitive advantage apparel brands, retailers and suppliers have to differentiate themselves by creating more seamless links between product development and the actual sourcing of the products. This approach helps to create a symbiotic relationship between trend-setting creative and practical production. However, before this can happen a number of traditional barriers need to be addressed. In the past, a lack of communication often led to unnecessary and costly reworking – for example, sample tests being repeated because people were unaware of previous tests or were unable to easily access earlier results.
Facing such a complex set of issues, it is imperative that companies evaluate and select technology partners and solutions that can help them strengthen innovation, implement best business practices and manage the flow of information – enter product lifecycle management (PLM).
PLM solutions are proving to be important tools for building stronger linkages between the traditionally separate steps of the apparel process. PLM can now play a significant role in creating integrated sourcing processes that incorporate all of the key elements of the supply chain including planning, product development, production allocation and authorizations. By enabling greater collaboration apparel companies can realize a number of clear benefits including enhanced time to market, improved supply chain performance, and ultimately, superior quality.
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