Prepack

Prepacking is the term for packing individual Stock Keeping Units of apparel into larger cases so that they flow more easily through the supply chain. For example, in clothing, the software can prepack items by automatically grouping certain sizes together according to customer request.

I recommend: Apparel Information Management Systems (AIMS) gives an example of prepacking.

Draping

In some software programs, a drape module allows the designer to hang fabric over an on-screen model, changing colors as needed. This program allows the client to view the apparel and give approval before the manufacturer spends time and effort on a sample article of clothing.

I recommend: Aria Systems provides a drape module in its software.

Nesting

Nesting involves allocating space efficiently on the fabric roll to prevent wasting of material. Pieces of fabric are nested against each other for the cutting process. Sophisticated algorithms in apparel software make better use of the fabric roll and save time on manual nesting preparation.

I recommend: Techexchange.com has an article on the OptiTex Nesting software program which describes how it nests material.

Cut order

Planning for the cut order in fabric means determining the best order in which to cut the fabric for use once nesting has been determined. Algorithms in apparel software optimize cutting order and save money and material.

I recommend: Cutplan discusses cut order and ways to optimize it.

Advanced shipping notice (ASN)

An advanced shipping notice (ASN) is a notice sometimes requested by the purchaser or trading partner. Usually the seller sends the ASN once workers have prepared the orders and invoices.

I recommend: AS/AP describes how to prepare an advanced shipping notice.

Product lifecycle management (PLM)

Product lifecycle management (PLM) refers to the entire lifecycle of apparel, from the design process, to development and manufacture, to distributors, to transportation, to retail.

I recommend: Business Management Systems (BMS) discusses the concept of PLM for the fashion industry.