The Value of Design Collaboration in the Fashion Business: A Literature Review

Abstract

Design is not a simple task; it requires the participation and collaboration of various value chain members. In this study, a selection of papers focusing on design collaboration in the fashion industry is reviewed. Four important value creation approaches in design collaboration are discussed: organizational, process, information, and electronic coordination. Among these categories, electronic coordination is a bridge for connecting organizations, processes, and information. With an electronically coordinated information system, an organization is able to participate in the design process; the co-design process can be implemented by individuals or organizations in the electronic system, and design information can be shared through electronic systems such as computer-aided design between individuals or organizations. Further, the benefits of design collaboration in the fashion business are explored. It is concluded that design collaboration is beneficial, as it can shorten lead times, enhance product quality, reduce product returns, optimize resources, and enhance the customer experience.

Keywords:

• innovation
• design management
• design collaboration
• fashion business
• design process
• coordination

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Luo Wang

Luo Wang is a PhD candidate at Donghua University in China. Her research interests focus on sustainable design management and consumer behaviour in the fashion industry.

Bin Shen

Bin Shen is an associate professor at Donghua University in China. His articles have appeared in various international academic journals including Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management, International Journal of Production Economics, Supply Chain Management, and Journal of Business Research. His research interests focus on fashion management and sustainability.

Xiaogang Liu

Xiaogang Liu is a full professor at Donghua University in China. He is an outstanding scholar in design and art studies in China. He has published many articles and managed various national grants in China. His research interests focus on fashion brand innovation and design methodology.