12 - Advancements in production planning and control

Abstract

This chapter discusses about the advancements in production planning and manufacturing in the context of automation in garment manufacturing. The reasons for adopting automation, the strategies followed along with the current and future trends in the textile and clothing industries have been explained. The emergence of fast changes in fashion cycle or fast fashion has given rise to the need to shorten the production cycle times in the garment industry, which has necessitated the need for automation and adoption of advanced tools, software, and equipment. Traditional garment manufacturing was labor-intensive and was cost-effective due to less demand on the quality and slow production cycle. Due to increased demands for quality clothing, automation is the approach that offers interesting possibilities and potentials for high-tech and better quality garments with lower cost and quick response to the consumer market in terms of current designs and orders. Automation costs have come down recently, have been more flexible to accommodate varying customer needs, and increased number of companies have been keen on accepting this technology.