BY CHRIS JONES | AUGUST 30, 2023 | 3 MINUTE READ     

In an era dominated by digital transformations, the fashion industry is no exception to the ever-increasing demand for efficiency, agility, and adaptability. Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems for fashion have long been the backbone of integrated product development and management. Now, with the power of cloud technology, Fashion PLM systems are witnessing unprecedented advancements.

I’ve taken the opportunity to refresh an old article that lists seven benefits of a cloud-driven solution and provides a peek into how cloud-based Fashion PLM solutions harness the power of the cloud to offer scalability, enhanced security, and unparalleled flexibility. This article is for you if you’re still using an on-premise solution!

1. Scalability on Demand

Cloud-Driven Benefit: Traditional on-premises PLM systems require significant infrastructure investment every time a brand needs to scale its operations. With cloud-based PLM solutions, brands can quickly scale up or down based on their needs without incurring excessive costs. Whether accommodating more users during peak seasons or launching a new product line, cloud-based PLM effortlessly handles the increased load.

2. Robust Security Protocols

Cloud-Driven Benefit: Reputable cloud service providers invest heavily in security, offering advanced encryption methods, multi-factor authentication, and regular security audits. With sensitive design details, supplier contracts, and other proprietary information housed in the PLM solution, leveraging cloud technology means ensuring this data remains secure against breaches and unauthorised access.

3. Flexibility and Accessibility

Cloud-Driven Benefit: Cloud-based PLM solutions can be accessed from any device with an internet connection. For fashion brands with teams spread across the globe, designers in New York can collaborate in real-time with suppliers in Milan or marketers in Tokyo. The cloud ensures everyone works on the latest data, fostering collaboration and speeding up decision-making.

4. Cost Efficiency

Cloud-Driven Benefit: Shifting to a cloud-based PLM solution means moving from a capital expenditure model to an operational expenditure model. Brands no longer need to invest heavily in servers, storage, or IT personnel to manage the infrastructure. The pay-as-you-go model of cloud services allows brands to only pay for the resources they use.

5. Seamless Upgrades and Updates

Cloud-Driven Benefit: The cloud-based PLM model ensures that software updates, new features, or security patches are rolled out seamlessly without causing downtime or requiring extensive manual intervention. Brands always have access to the latest features and the most secure software version.

6. Enhanced Data Backup and Recovery

Cloud-Driven Benefit: Cloud providers offer regular data backups across multiple locations. In case of any mishaps, like data corruption or accidental deletions, the recovery process is swift, ensuring business continuity and minimal disruption.

7. Environmental Sustainability

Cloud-Driven Benefit: By sharing resources in a cloud environment, brands reduce their carbon footprint. Cloud data centres are optimised for energy efficiency, making cloud-based PLM solutions a greener alternative to traditional on-premises systems.

Conclusion

Fusing Fashion PLM with cloud technology is a testament to how digital innovations can elevate industry-specific solutions. Brands that adopt cloud-based PLM are not just investing in a tool but are embracing a future where scalability, security, and flexibility drive decision-making, innovation, and growth. In a competitive fashion landscape, such a move was once a game-changer yet is now essential, providing brands with the capability for speed, agility, flexibility and adaptability that enables them to compete.

CHRIS JONES, FOUNDER & DIRECTOR, JBSO GROUP

After originally training and working as an engineer, Chris joined a fashion services and technology company 30 years ago to implement ISO9001. Since then, he has helped drive transformation projects for over a hundred fashion brands, retailers, sourcing agents, and manufacturers to optimize their processes, supported by innovative technologies and concepts, working in offices, showrooms, and factories world-wide.

Also published on Linkedin: Elevating Fashion PLM with Cloud Technology: Scalability, Security, and Flexibility Unleashed (LinkedIn)