The digital transformation of garment product development

Abstract

Many clothing companies approach digital transformation by focusing on digitizing individual processes or operations. Digital transformation is often limited to specific initiatives or programmes that only impact a few departments. Significant opportunities or existential risks are often the main drivers for digital transformation. Moreover, leaders planning the future of their companies and industries should focus on the opportunity – or existential threat – that these changes present. It is essential to find the ideal balance between focusing on quick results with innovative ideas and laying the foundation for digital transformation, such as unleashing the potential of data and analytics, managing brand and reputational risk, controlling the entire supply chain and closing the digital technology gaps are not the only significant issues. A complete change in corporate culture that puts the customer at the centre is the key component of the ultimate digital challenge for clothing companies. This article presents the opportunities, benefits and challenges of developing garment models with digital tools from Gemini CAD, a Lectra company. These tools include (in addition to the pattern) the product data sheet, a detailed description of all fabrics, trimmings, and accessories, components needed for sourcing, purchasing, and determining the cost of the product, as well as the information needed to publish the product on e-commerce and interact with the customer, including customization.