In today’s rapidly evolving fashion industry, staying ahead of trends and streamlining operations is no longer optional; it’s essential. While many understand what ERP software is, no one knows PLM.
With increasing pressures to deliver quality products faster and more cost-effectively, apparel companies are turning to technology to stay competitive. One such transformative technology is Apparel Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software.
In this post, we’ll explore:
What apparel PLM software is
Why it’s crucial for success
How even small fashion teams can leverage cloud-based PLM solutions
Challenges of adopting a PLM in the fashion business
How to choose the right system
The steps to a successful implementation
Key features to look for
What is Apparel PLM Software?
Apparel PLM software is a centralized platform designed to manage the entire product lifecycle, from concept and design through production to the final product launch.
It serves as the digital hub for all product-related information, fostering collaboration and ensuring that every team member is on the same page.
By automating workflows, managing data efficiently, and providing real-time updates, PLM software helps in reducing time-to-market and minimizing the risk of costly errors
Key Functions of A PLM
Design Collaboration: Streamlines communication among designers, suppliers, and manufacturers.
Data Management: Consolidates product specifications, materials, costings, and more.
Workflow Automation: Tracks progress, sets reminders, and ensures compliance with deadlines.
Integration: Connects with ERP, CAD, and other essential software systems for seamless data exchange.
So, do the benefits of using apparel PLM software really outweigh the costs?
Why is Apparel PLM Important?
The adoption of apparel PLM software is not just a trend; it’s a strategic necessity. Here’s why it holds such importance in the fashion industry:
Efficiency and Speed: By automating repetitive tasks and centralizing information, PLM software reduces the manual overhead involved in product development. This means faster turnaround times from concept to market.
Enhanced Collaboration: With teams often spread across different geographies, having a single platform that facilitates communication and collaboration is vital.
Improved Accuracy: Errors and miscommunications can be costly. A PLM system minimizes these risks by ensuring that everyone works from the same, up-to-date information.
Cost Management: Better visibility into the entire lifecycle helps in identifying cost-saving opportunities, managing inventory levels, and mitigating unforeseen expenses.
Sustainability: With increased scrutiny on environmental impacts, PLM can help track sustainable practices and materials usage throughout the supply chain.
The Challenges Of Adopting A PLM In The Fashion Business
Despite its benefits, transitioning to a new PLM system can present challenges, particularly in a fast-paced industry like fashion. Recognizing these hurdles is the first step in addressing them effectively.
Initial Investment
Even with cloud solutions, there is an initial learning curve and sometimes a modest financial commitment required to set up the system.
Ensuring compatibility with other business-critical applications (like ERP or CAD systems) can be complex.
Data Migration
Transferring existing product data into a new system requires careful planning to avoid data loss or inaccuracies.
Customization Requirements
Fashion businesses often have unique needs that may require customization of the PLM software, adding an extra layer of complexity to the implementation process.
How To Choose A PLM for Your Small Fashion Business
Selecting the right PLM system tailored to your business size and model is crucial. Here are some strategies to guide your decision-making process:
Identify Your Needs: Clearly outline your specific challenges and objectives, whether it’s streamlining design collaboration, enhancing data accuracy, or accelerating production timelines.
Evaluate Scalability: Choose a solution that not only meets your current requirements but can also scale as your business grows.
Seek User-Friendly Solutions: The software should be intuitive and easy to learn, minimizing downtime during the transition period.
Check Integration Capabilities: Verify that the PLM can seamlessly integrate with your existing systems, such as ERP, CRM, and pattern design software.
Consult Peer Reviews and Case Studies: Look for testimonials and success stories from similar-sized fashion companies to gauge the software’s real-world performance.
Consider Cloud vs. On-Premises: For most small fashion businesses, cloud-based solutions offer lower costs and greater flexibility, though each option should be evaluated based on your unique needs.
Now that you have chosen the perfect PLM, it is time to implement it.
Steps To a Successful PLM Implementation Of Your New Apparel PLM System
Implementing a PLM system need not be overwhelming if approached methodically. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth rollout:
Define Clear Objectives: Start with a clear plan outlining what you hope to achieve, such as reducing time-to-market, minimizing errors, and enhancing data visibility.
Assemble a Dedicated Team: Establish a project team that includes representatives from design, production, IT, and management to ensure broad-based input.
Conduct a Pilot Phase: Implement the system on a small scale first to gather feedback and make necessary adjustments before a full-scale rollout.
Train Your Team: Provide comprehensive training sessions and resources to help team members get accustomed to the new system.
Integrate with Existing Systems: Work closely with your IT department or vendor to ensure smooth integration with other essential systems.
Monitor and Iterate: Regularly review the system’s performance against your objectives, and be open to iterative changes to optimize workflows further.
Gather Feedback: Continuously collect feedback from users to identify areas for improvement and ensure the system evolves to meet changing needs.
Need help? The right PLM provider should assist you in your implementation to ensure it is seamless.
PLM Software Features
Apparel PLM software is packed with features that cater specifically to the needs of fashion businesses. Below is a breakdown of core modules and their capabilities to help you understand what to look for in a PLM system and how it can streamline your operations from concept to consumer.
1. Calendaring & Planning
Efficient planning is essential for meeting tight fashion deadlines. Apparel PLM tools come equipped with advanced calendaring and planning features that help teams stay on track.
Create and manage product line plans using an integrated development calendar
Monitor progress with real-time dashboards designed for leadership visibility
Compare estimated costs with actuals to stay on budget
Assess your product mix across custom structures like region, category, or gender
Forecast business performance by style, SKU, or any defined grouping
2. Component Library
Managing raw materials and non-material inputs is easier with a centralized component library.
Customize supplier and material relationships for greater flexibility
Link multiple vendors to each material to support competitive costing
Track seasonal usage trends and manage inventory needs proactively
Include labor, tariffs, shipping, and other non-material components in your library
Record and access material test results and approvals in one place
Centralize all related documentation for streamlined access and compliance
3. Color Library
Color plays a major role in fashion. A robust PLM system provides tools to manage your color strategy effectively.
Develop a robust, unlimited catalog of color options
Define and manage seasonal palettes to align with design goals
Oversee lab dip processes and ensure dye accuracy
Create fabric samples with precise dye and chemical formulations
Set up style colorways with up to a dozen variations per design
Use a dashboard to manage and monitor seasonal color deployment
Track usage trends and phase out outdated colorways as needed
Auto-generate material entries based on selected colorways
4. Style Definition
Managing style data requires flexible tools that adapt to your product structure and processes.
Categorize styles using user-defined hierarchies
Create multiple tech pack templates for various product types
Define greige, fabric, or garment styles for budgeting or production
Generate a detailed bill of materials (BOM)
Integrate documents and images from Microsoft Office and other tools
Export style data to Adobe PDF with a single click
Standardize measurement specifications and track sample measurement history
Create templates for sewing instructions, packing guides, and more
Manage full color, size, and option configurations in one place
Share product data securely with vendors and customers
5. Sourcing
Strong sourcing features help manage vendor relationships and ensure you get the best materials at the best cost.
Track and negotiate pricing with suppliers and maintain a history of deals
Work with multiple suppliers for the same style
Automatically send RFQs and tech packs to vendors
Calculate landed costs for domestic and international sourcing
Monitor and manage ongoing supplier relationships
6. Sample Management
Sample management is a key step in apparel development. PLM makes it more transparent and efficient.
Calendar and track all sample requests
Submit, manage, and monitor sample development
Track and compare measurements and sample versions over time
7. Enterprise Collaboration
Apparel PLM software is built to enhance communication both internally and externally.
Collaborate with vendors, suppliers, and customers through dedicated portals
Automate messages and reminders based on task status or changes
Maintain a communication history across all project stakeholders
Send internal messages or emails to any team member or external partner
Set reminders and activity ticklers to keep the team aligned and on schedule
Leverage PolyPM
In the competitive world of fashion, embracing technology is critical to maintaining an edge. Apparel PLM software offers the agility, precision, and efficiency required to navigate a complex and fast-moving industry.
By understanding what PLM software is, recognizing its importance, and knowing how to select and implement the right system, even small fashion teams can transform their operations.
Adopting a cloud-based PLM solution not only streamlines processes but also fosters collaboration, improves product quality, and expedites time-to-market.
Along with our integrated PLM and ERP solution, we offer services such as customization, data migration and implementation, and team training. Schedule a free demo to see how our apparel PLM software can transform your business.
