Quick Response in the Apparel Industry

Janice H. Hammond

Background Note | HBS Case Collection | February 1990 (Revised April 1991)

Quick Response in the Apparel Industry

Abstract

It has been estimated that the U.S. apparel industry wastes over $25 billion annually due to inefficient practices, long lead times, and insufficient coordination between channel partners. In response to intense competition from off-shore producers, the industry has initiated efforts to reduce these losses and regain competitiveness. This note provides background information on the U.S. apparel industry and describes the concept of "Quick Response," a strategy that increases the competitiveness of domestic manufacturers by increasing their ability to quickly respond to shifting markets. Describes changes in technology, information systems, and channel relationships that are necessary to implement a Quick Response system.

Keywords: Information; Distribution Channels; Performance Efficiency; Partners and Partnerships; Adaptation; Business Strategy; System; Technology; Apparel and Accessories Industry; United States;

Format: Print

19 pages

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Hammond, Janice H. "Quick Response in the Apparel Industry." Harvard Business School Background Note 690-038, February 1990. (Revised April 1991.)

This note describes how historical and on-going policies and practices that discriminate against African Americans led to present-day inequality. Topics include slavery, segregation, Jim Crow laws, “black codes,” and policies and practices relating to criminal justice, housing, and education.

The Web-based beer game is an exercise that demonstrates supply channel dynamics. Simulates the flow of material and information in a simplified channel of beer production and distribution, focusing on the linkages between a beer manufacturer, its distributors, a wholesaler, and a retailer. Students are organized into teams of four, each assigned to place orders and manage inventory for one firm in the channel. In this simplified channel, orders are the only information allowed to flow among channel participants. The 90-minute exercise is played on a web-based computer simulation tool developed at the Harvard Business School. The program has a parameter page that allows the instructor to easily vary information and transportation lead times, information availability, demand, and so on. The instructor can work with students to understand the nature of the problems they experience, identify the causes, and discuss possible remedies.

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Quick Response in the Apparel Industry

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