What Is the Best ERP Software for Customizable Apparel?

Upgrading team-wide software can revolutionize daily operations. Anyone who owns or works for a customizable apparel company could experience benefits by investing in enterprise resource planning (ERP) software. The tool helps businesses across industries, but the customizable features are beneficial for custom orders. Interested teams can explore the various programs and make the best decision for their organization.

Why ERP Programs Help Apparel Manufacturing

Apparel companies appreciate ERP programs because they pull numerous aspects of daily operations into one platform. Teams can manage unique orders for custom clothing products within the same dashboard. The tools track inventory, highlight opportunities for production efficiency and assist with financial management responsibilities.

ERP software could also improve team-wide communication. If everyone has one resource to check throughout the day, there is less risk of miscommunication delaying orders. With many companies making custom-order clothing, improved collaboration could skyrocket a business's customer reputation and boost its competitive edge.

Best ERP Software Platforms to Consider

Teams ready to explore ERP programs should start with the leading options. They will find the best tools with the most positive industry-wide reception and maximize their investment.

1. FDM4

FDM4 specializes in both apparel and non-apparel manufacturing. The apparel-focused software has numerous tools for customizable clothing teams, like an integrated decoration module. Teams can use FDM4 while scaling their business, managing an influx of orders or tracking changes in the supply chain. FDM4 merges everything into one platform for simple integration and streamlined communication.

2. FashionFlow

Apparel companies rely on FashionFlow to merge production workflows with online platforms like Shopify. The user-friendly software adapts to business needs as orders change. Teams can become more effective with the cut-to-order tool or FashionFlow’s material forecasting resources. The program’s flexibility and simple integration make it one of the best ERP software options for manufacturers handling custom apparel orders.

3. Wherefour

Wherefour supports numerous industries, including apparel companies. The platform excels at inventory management and automation, saving more time when designing clothing orders. Apparel manufacturers also appreciate the platform’s unique traceability tool. The function monitors every component that goes into a product, including who interacts with it and when. Due to the added documentation and transparency, quality control could become easier with an ERP program like Wherefour.

4. Aptean

Manufacturing teams appreciate Aptean because the program has numerous operational features that compete with the best ERP platforms. Aptean monitors warehouse data and production schedules, so authorized users know when to restock materials or refine daily operations. The platform also has financial reporting, production planning and omnichannel fulfillment integration capabilities. Teams looking for a comprehensive approach to managing an apparel business can consider Aptean while deciding which upgrade is best for their company.

5. NetSuite

NetSuite is a cloud-based program that automates many customizable apparel processes. The software has e-commerce and project management resources that support creating, manufacturing and selling unique orders. NetSuite also has solutions for teams that need integrated payroll and human resources (HR) tools. Businesses with recurring apparel customers can also create CRM profiles to track each client’s preferences and past orders.

6. Microsoft Dynamics 365

Managers who are hesitant about trying a new platform might feel more comfortable with Microsoft Dynamics 365. The ERP software from the well-known tech company is user-friendly and works on Windows devices. People also enjoy the program's artificial intelligence, which helps authorized users understand individual custom journeys. Users who are not working with clients can generate detailed reports, manage production data and automate workflows with Microsoft-compatible apps. The adaptable platform could boost productivity with its numerous tools.

Tips to Start Using Company-Wide Software

Adding an ERP program to team-wide operations may seem challenging. The valuable tools will help everyone involved in production, but the addition could interrupt workflows without a streamlined implementation strategy. Managers can make the transition easier by:

• Requesting installation assistance: Some ERP companies will help clients install the program and get it running to reduce the chance of manufacturing delays.
• Starting with one goal: Asking employees to use every tool within an ERP platform immediately could cause confusion and errors. Team leaders can create a timeline to get everyone used to one feature at a time.
• Migrating all data: Company leaders should double-check that all relevant data has successfully transferred to the new ERP software. The collection may include essential financial records, customer profiles or manufacturing schedules.

When a team is ready to invest in a particular ERP platform, it should contact the company's customer support department. The manufacturer may include installation or data migration services in each purchase, helping customers experience smooth transitions.

Improve Customizable Apparel Production Workflows

ERP tools could make fulfilling custom clothing orders easier. The software programs integrate manufacturing, management and financial responsibilities into one location. If company leaders receive installation assistance and introduce the new features gradually, their teams could become more efficient.