An enterprise resource planning system is a tool that gives companies the freedom to automate processes and manage all functions from one point through an integrated application. The management solution explicitly used by the garment industry is called ERP software for garments. It is designed (or customized) to:

1. wholesalers
2. retailers
3. Manufacturers

It can be implemented in the fashion, apparel or consumer lifestyle sector. Some of the applications that clothing software can incorporate are:

1. Material Sourcing
2. clothing manufacturing
3. Supply chain and logistics
4. Product design and development.

Factors that influence the selection of garment management software

Current and future goals are important when choosing the right ERP for an apparel company. Here are the 5 criteria that should be taken into account in the decision:

• Analysis of costs and investments

For most companies, the cost of an ERP is the most important factor. While an important consideration, you need to understand the return on your strategic investment. Long-term ROI typically offsets purchase and implementation costs. When comparing software, keep in mind:

1. A cheaper solution might have more mediocre functionality or might offer fewer support and installation issues. Very often, increased profits are in direct correlation to the price paid.
2. Dive into the capabilities of the ERP and not just the price. Find your features, modules and integration capabilities

In general, apparel software that fits your business requirements and offers the flexibility to scale will cost a bit more, but will help your business thrive. For example, a cloud-based ERP is an expensive investment but more reliable and profitable.

• Be aware of the needs of the business.

An ERP for an apparel company has to be tailored to meet unique needs. Specifications vary from store to store and company to company. While some may require only one application, others may require the implementation of more modules. Knowing the precise prerequisites of the company is essential. Some criteria to weigh when considering conditions are:

1. Will software be used to streamline operations?
2. Is it necessary to improve efficiency in financial data such as accounting?
3. Is the need primarily for inventory, logistics, and order?
4. Will you assist in production, design, and project planning?
5. Is it necessary to improve customer services and, therefore, the experience?

The answer to these questions will help you decide which management software modules to install. Therefore, they help to shortlist more solutions.

• Think of each user of the software

Once implemented, a large number of workers use the garment business system. While some will be end users, others will handle setup, updates, and integrations. It makes it necessary to consider each stakeholder and user when deciding which ERP to buy.

A simple technique is to create a team with a representative from each department or function in the business. Involve this team in the selection process and listen to their feedback. They will typically offer valuable insights that connect to day-to-day tasks that might not register for a top executive.

• It is the scalable solution

For midsize businesses or apparel firms that are new to ERP, the initial decision is to implement a solution with just a few modules. A decision is made to reduce total cost while improving business functions. But as a company grows and makes more profit, its operations become more complex. Therefore, at some point, the need for a more complete management software that offers the automation of more processes may arise.

Even the opposite is possible. If due to some unforeseen reason, the garment business needs to downsize its operation, fewer software modules may be required. In essence, a scalable solution allows your software to grow or shrink based on the needs of the organization. Ergo, it makes sense to opt for a system that has the ability to scale over one that doesn’t.

• Choose a business partner, not a supplier

One final consideration when shopping for apparel management software is to look for a provider that will become a true business partner. The qualities that a seller must have are:

1. Do you offer after-sales support?
2. What are the vendor’s values ​​along with their vision, ie do they bring benefits other than the solution to the table?
3. Do they only sell the software or do they also help with implementation and deployment?
4. Do you offer support when software crashes or problems occur?
5. Do they have the experience in your business, sector or industry?

A proper method of selection is to conduct online research and read vendor reviews. Search for your current or former customers and ask for feedback.