Approaches, methods and techniques for time compression in the textile-apparel chain

The textile apparel chain presents specific characteristics that have a significant impact on the typical long time spans involved inte chain and on transformation and production modes. Quick Response is the industry strategy to improve the time to market. The technological and organisational impact on the chain which Quick Response produces is enormous, both within and outside the company. This paper offers a model of the phenomenon, in order to examine the temporal sequences of the activities and decisions of the textile-apparel chain and to present the prospects for improvement initiatives along the various chain phases, whether in terms of technology or of organisation and management. The paper focuses on the methods, techniques and approaches to be adopted along the entire chain in order to reach: a) the reduction of lead times in supplying fabric; b) the reduction of lead times in producing garment; and c) innovative relationships with the distributors. The structural and infrastructural changes necessary for a Q.R. approach are also highlighted.