8 - Advances in apparel product development

Abstract

This chapter is concerned with new product development. There are numerous commercial pressures on companies involved in the supply of garments to consumers, and they all come to a focus when considering the processes that link design with manufacturing and distribution. Globalisation has brought immense change to every aspect of the industry, and this is the context for all the issues discussed here. The traditional process of new product development is described, together with indicators of the need for change. The major models of new product development are reviewed, identifying the concurrent product development approach as one that offers significant improvements. Tools and technologies relevant to the process are discussed, notably CAD Development systems and Product Data Management software. The chapter goes on to consider the implementation of change, and shows that the role of the retailer (as supply chain leader) is crucial. Finally, discussion of Fast Fashion brings to a head the importance of restructuring the product development process to bring integration to internal systems and to supply chain management.