Product management has always been of grave concern for businesses. Product development and management can become even harder and more challenging as the market gets competitive. All thanks to technology that introduced the business world to product lifecycle management software, alternatively known as PLM software. It is software or an integrated solution that enables companies to manage their products from infancy to retirement. PLM is used widely in the manufacturing sector, and it is also making waves in the fashion and apparel industry. PLM software for the fashion industry is capable of doing wonders with its potential.
PLM can deal with complex products and processes. Therefore, it is of great use in product design and manufacturing in the fashion sector. Not only does it work as a central hub or repository for product-related information, but also for harnessing new ideas. Different industries have been using it for years for collaboration, communication, precision, quality improvement, and whatnot. In the last few years, we witnessed a rise in the use of PLM software in the fashion industry. Designers use it to improve their designs and production capabilities. Apart from that, it reduces time-to-market and allows quicker release of new designs and apparel.
PLM modules
To understand and learn how PLM software could benefit the fashion industry in the forthcoming years, we must focus on PLM modules. These include:
Product data management (PDM): It is responsible for managing product data such as design files, drawings, and specifications.
Collaboration: It enables teams to collaborate and share product information across different departments, locations, and even external partners.
Workflow automation: It is responsible for automating product-related workflows, including approvals, change requests, and release processes.
Analytics and reporting: This module provides actionable insights into product performance, such as sales data, customer feedback, and quality metrics.
Tips for effective PLM implementation in the fashion world
1. Stating clear requirements and needs
In order to have a successful implementation of PLM software, it is imperative to identify one’s needs and wants. Every fashion brand has specific needs. These needs may include features such as design collaboration, sample management, product launch planning, material and color management, product data management, and production planning.
2. Choosing the right PLM software
Based on your company or brand-specific needs, you can choose the right PLM Solutions. Research and evaluate different frameworks based on factors such as ease of use, scalability, pricing, and customer support.
3. Training the team
Before introducing your team to the PLM software make sure they are well-versed with it. To use it effectively, one must be acquainted enough with it. It involves training the employees through workshops, tutorials, etc.
4. Integrating with other platforms
Businesses must integrate PLM software with other platforms for effective results and high productivity. These systems are ERP, CAD, and CRM systems.
5. Implementing the software
Start using the PLM software to manage your fashion products. Track the progress of product development, collaborate with teams, and manage all product-related data in a single system.
How to use PLM Software for Fashion Industry in 2023
Now we shall focus on the benefits and usage of PLM software for the Fashion industry. 2023 will witness a boom in the use of PLM software by many big brands. Since this is a fast-paced and highly competitive industry, support from good software can bring in popularity and revenues. Big fashion brands can use PLM software for:
1. Design Management
PLM software can help fashion companies manage their design process by providing a central repository for all design-related information. In this repository, all product information, design ideas, and marketing campaigns would be stored. Designers and employees can access it for sharing designs, editing campaigns, etc. It will encourage collaboration and reduce errors.
2. Material Management
Material management would be easier with PLM software and its central repository. The repository would be accessible to all and have all the relevant information on suppliers, inventory, prices, and product availability. This information can help companies make better purchasing decisions and reduce material waste. The repository would include data regarding samples, shipment, production details, quality control, testing, certifications, approvals, and what not. Easy and remote access to this information would help track shipments, improve product quality, reduce delays, decrease the risk of non-compliance, and bring more discipline to the assembly line of products and business overall.
3. Compliance Management
Compliance management is an integral part of the product industry. The fashion sector could benefit from PLM by accounting for all the compliance data that ensures processes are running smoothly. PLM enables seamless and automated workflow, thus reducing the chances of non-compliance.
In short fashion industry is one of the many industries that can improve its operations and work with the help of PLM software.
We provide Agile Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions & services to give you an efficient, affordable way to ensure streamlined processes for your business. Xavor offers complete Consulting Services for different modules of Agile PLM like Product Collaboration, Product Quality Management, Product Portfolio Management.
