Quick Response Management System for the Apparel Industry: Definition through Technologies

Abstract

The competitive manufacturing environment has caused manufacturers to seek new and more effective strategies. Quick Response (QR) is one system being adopted by U.S. apparel manufacturers. Trade literature addresses a number of performance issues about QR and provides broad definitions, but limited information exists in refereed journals to define or delineate the QR management system and associated technologies. The study was done in two parts: (1) trade literature review and case study interviews and (2) empirical research with apparel manufacturers. Implementation of QR was most closely related to the technologies associated with partnerships between apparel manufacturers and retailers. This-study provides a quantified operational definition of the QR management system and a homogeneous basis of information for understanding of the QR system, useful for research and management decision making. Clarity of definition can assist manufacturers in collecting information and evaluating decisions.