TradeStone extends PLM capabilities with new Creative Design Module

09 Dec '09

3 min read

TradeStone Software, delivering Merchandise Lifecycle Management solutions that unify the design, sourcing, ordering and delivery of private label and branded goods, announced the general availability of a new Creative Design module that further extends and strengthens the Company's PLM capabilities.

Currently being implemented at more than a dozen major department store and apparel brand companies throughout North America and Europe, the optional Creative Design module is helping shorten design and development times, improve product quality and color consistency and reduce material and product costs. For existing users of TradeStone's MLM solutions, this module will provide them with one holistic infrastructure starting with designer inspiration for managing the merchandise lifecycle through to delivery.

In today's ultra-competitive world, organizations need to differentiate themselves and increase brand recognition through innovative and exciting designs. Creating a theme for a season, or collaborating on programs and developing packaging, is a daunting task that can make or break a retailer's bottom line.

“Consumer demand and the latest trends inform the creative process, but it takes both to make that information meaningful and speed innovative and trend-right products to market in time to hit the sweet spot of full-priced sell-through,” said Janet Suleski, Research Director, Retail, AMR Research. “The result? Greater design and supply chain efficiencies, fewer markdowns, improved profitability across the merchandise portfolio, as well as the most valuable prize of all: relevance in your customers' eyes.”

TradeStone's Creative Design module enables retailers and their partners to collaborate more efficiently on the product design process. Using one solution for managing color, component/material and artwork libraries, defining color palettes, specifying product construction details, tracking samples and building technical specifications, retailers can inspire their brands, develop quality merchandise, reduce cycle times and improve margins.

Key Features of the Creative Design Module:

• Web-based solution and intuitive interface that facilitates collaboration across the design process
• Single system for managing color, component/material and artwork libraries electronically
• 'My Stuff' workspace and drag n' drop functionality supports storyboard development
• Online creation of sample requests, management of supplier submissions and tracking of evaluations
• Real-time communication of detailed product information to Suppliers, Manufacturers and Mills

“Our customers have been pushing us to augment our existing PLM capabilities so that they can speed time to market with a simplified approach and single system for creative design that extends into product development, sourcing, order management and delivery,” said Ann Diamante, Chief Product Officer, TradeStone Software. “Developing new merchandise is a very visual and collaborative process so we were conscious it required a solution that not only supports creativity but makes the whole process of producing a Tech Pack more efficient. This latest release solidifies our position as the recognized vendor of choice for PLM solutions in the retail industry.”

TradeStone Software

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