A garment production system basically is about how any type of garments is manufactured. Over the years there have been many types of garment production but only a few have been deemed successful and efficient. We will be talking about these ones in detail in this article.
We will be looking at the top six types of garment production and then we will be discussing how you can choose one that’s best for you. Working with a particular garment production comes with many benefits and you will understand them once you read about them in detail.
Types of Garment Production
1. Mass Production System
A mass production system is a method where many clothes are made at the same time. It’s like a big machine that makes lots of clothes quickly. This system is used in big factories where they make the same clothes over and over again. It’s fast and saves time because everything is done in a big line. But sometimes, the clothes might not be very unique because they are all made the same way.
Pros:
- Efficiency: Produces large quantities quickly.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Lower production costs per unit.
- Consistency: Uniform quality and design.
- High Output: Large volume production.
- Market Penetration: Widespread distribution.
Cons:
- Lack of Customization: Limited customization options.
- Overproduction: Risk of excess inventory.
2. Make Through System
Make make-through system is when clothes are made from start to finish in one go. It’s like cooking a meal where you make everything from scratch. In garment production, this means each piece of clothing is made one by one without stopping. It’s good for making custom clothes because each piece can be different. But it can take longer because each item is made separately.
Pros:
- Customization: Tailored to individual preferences.
- Quality Control: Thorough quality checks.
- Flexibility: Accommodates design changes.
- Unique Products: Each garment is unique.
- Personalization: Builds customer loyalty.
Cons:
- Time-Consuming: Longer lead times.
- Higher Costs: Increased production expenses.
3. Progressive Bundle System
A progressive bundle system is a way of making clothes where each piece goes through different stages before it’s finished. It’s like building a house where you add one part at a time. In garment production, this means each piece goes through cutting, sewing, and finishing steps separately. It helps keep track of each piece and makes sure everything is done right.
Pros:
- Efficiency: Smooth production flow.
- Work Organization: Well-organized process.
- Quality Control: Minimizes errors.
- Adaptability: Easily adjusts to demand.
- Reduced Work-In-Progress: Limits excess inventory.
Cons:
- Complexity: Requires careful coordination.
- Dependency on Workflow: Susceptible to disruptions.
4. Single-piece Flow
Single-piece flow is when each piece of clothing is made one at a time and moves from one stage to the next without stopping. It’s like a conveyor belt where each item moves along smoothly. In garment production, this means each piece is worked on individually until it’s finished before the next one starts. It helps reduce mistakes and keeps things organized.
Pros:
- Streamlined Process: Continuous production flow.
- Quality Assurance: Immediate issue rectification.
- Reduced Waste: Minimizes material wastage.
- Flexibility: Adapts to demand changes.
- Employee Engagement: Boosts worker motivation.
Cons:
- Speed Limitations: Not suitable for high volumes.
- Skill Requirements: Demands skilled workers.
5. Unit Production System (UPS)
In the unit production system, manufacturers produce clothes in small units or batches. It’s like cooking in small portions instead of making a big meal all at once. In garment production, this means making a certain number of clothes at a time before moving on to the next batch. It’s good for managing resources and keeping track of production.
Pros:
- Flexibility: Adapts to varying demand.
- Cost Control: Minimizes overproduction costs.
- Customization: Easily tailored products.
- Reduced Lead Times: Faster response to orders.
- Resource Optimization: Maximizes resource use.
Cons:
- Complexity in Planning: Requires careful coordination.
- Higher Setup Costs: Initial investment needed
6. Modular system
The modular system is a way of making clothes where different parts are made separately and then put together at the end. It’s like building with Lego blocks where you assemble pieces to make something bigger. In garment production, this means making parts like sleeves, collars, and pockets separately before attaching them to the main piece. It allows for customization and flexibility in design.
Pros:
- Customization: Allows extensive customization.
- Flexibility: Easily adapts to changes.
- Quality Control: Ensures high-quality products.
- Efficiency: Streamlines production process.
- Scalability: Easily adjusts production capacity.
Cons:
- Assembly Complexity: Requires specialized skills.
- Initial Investment: Demands significant upfront costs.
How To Choose The Right Type of Garment Production?
Since you now know that there are many types of garment production you will have a hard time picking the right or best one. To help make the decision-making process easier for yourself we have created the perfect guide for you.
Use this guide to make your decision on which types of garment production is best for you:
- Understand Your Needs: Start by understanding what kind of clothes you want to make and how many you need. Consider factors like design complexity, quantity, and customization options.
- Evaluate Production Methods: Learn about different types of garment production methods, such as mass production, batch production, and custom-made production. Consider the pros and cons of each method in relation to your needs.
- Assess Resources: Take stock of your resources, including equipment, materials, and workforce. Determine which production method aligns best with your available resources and capabilities.
- Consider Time Constraints: Consider the time it takes to produce clothes using different methods. Mass production may be faster for large quantities, while custom-made production may take longer but offers greater flexibility.
- Think About Quality: Quality is essential in garment production. Consider which method allows for consistent quality control and meets your standards for craftsmanship and durability.
- Factor in Costs: Compare the costs associated with each production method, including initial setup costs, labor expenses, and overheads. Choose a method that offers a balance between cost-effectiveness and quality.
- Evaluate Market Demand: Consider the demand for your clothes in the market. Choose a production method that can meet customer demand efficiently while maintaining product quality and consistency.
- Consider Sustainability: In today’s environmentally conscious world, consider the sustainability implications of your production method. Choose methods that minimize waste, energy consumption, and environmental impact.
- Seek Expert Advice: If you’re unsure which production method is right for you, seek advice from industry experts, consultants, or experienced manufacturers. They can provide valuable observations and recommendations based on their expertise.
- Stay Flexible: Keep in mind that the right production method may evolve over time as your business grows and market conditions change. Stay flexible and open to adapting your production strategy as needed.
By following these steps and carefully evaluating your options, you can choose the right type of garment production that meets your needs, satisfies your customers, and helps your business thrive.
Further Reading: Automation in Garment Production: Transforming the Manufacturing Landscape in Bangladesh
Conclusion
Now you should have a clearer picture about which are the top types of garment production in Bangladesh and worldwide. There are many more unique and particular types of clothing production but the ones we covered are the major ones.
Each of these types of clothing production comes with their own pros and cons which can help you with deciding which one to go with. If you need any more help then you should follow our guide on choosing the best garment production type. Bangladesh in particular has made themselves world renown through their effective RMG production.
FAQs
What is the most common type of garment production?
Mass production is the most common type, characterized by high-volume production lines and standardized processes.
How does mass production differ from craft production?
Mass production emphasizes efficiency and uniformity, while craft production focuses on artisanal craftsmanship and individuality.
Is batch production suitable for small businesses?
Batch production offers flexibility and customization, making it suitable for small businesses catering to niche markets or limited edition designs.
What are the benefits of JIT production?
JIT production improves efficiency and responsiveness by manufacturing goods only when needed, minimizing inventory costs and waste.
How can garment production methods impact sustainability?
Garment production methods can impact sustainability through factors such as material sourcing, production processes, and supply chain practices.
