How do you collaborate with other stakeholders or departments in the tech pack validation process?

1 Define the roles and responsibilities

The first step in the tech pack validation process is to define the roles and responsibilities of each stakeholder or department involved. This may include designers, product developers, technical designers, merchandisers, buyers, quality assurance, sourcing, and logistics. Each of them should have a clear understanding of what they need to do, what they need to provide, and what they need to review. For example, designers may be responsible for creating the initial tech pack, product developers may be responsible for updating the tech pack with feedback from suppliers, technical designers may be responsible for checking the fit and construction details, and so on.

2 Establish a workflow and timeline

The next step in the tech pack validation process is to establish a workflow and timeline for each stage of the process. This may include creating, reviewing, approving, and revising the tech pack. You should also set deadlines and milestones for each task and deliverable. For example, you may have a deadline for submitting the tech pack to the supplier, a deadline for receiving the first sample, a deadline for conducting the fit test, and a deadline for finalizing the tech pack. You should also use a project management tool or platform to track the progress and status of each task and deliverable.

3 Communicate effectively and frequently

The third step in the tech pack validation process is to communicate effectively and frequently with all the stakeholders or departments involved. You should use clear and concise language, avoid jargon and ambiguity, and provide feedback and suggestions in a constructive and respectful manner. You should also use a common communication channel or platform, such as email, chat, or video call, to share information, updates, questions, and issues. You should also document and archive all the communication records for future reference and accountability.

4 Use a standard format and template

The fourth step in the tech pack validation process is to use a standard format and template for creating and updating the tech pack. This will help to ensure consistency, readability, and compatibility across different stakeholders or departments. You should also use a common file format and naming convention, such as PDF, Excel, or Illustrator, and include the style number, season, and version in the file name. You should also use a cloud-based storage or sharing service, such as Google Drive, Dropbox, or Techpacker, to store and access the tech pack files.

5 Review and verify the details

The fifth step in the tech pack validation process is to review and verify the details of the tech pack before sending it to the supplier or manufacturer. You should check for any errors, omissions, discrepancies, or contradictions in the tech pack, such as measurements, colors, trims, labels, and packaging. You should also compare the tech pack with the original design sketch, the product brief, and the customer requirements. You should also involve other stakeholders or departments in the review process, such as quality assurance, sourcing, and logistics, to ensure that the tech pack meets the standards and specifications of your brand and market.

6 Test and evaluate the sample

The final step in the tech pack validation process is to test and evaluate the sample that you receive from the supplier or manufacturer based on the tech pack. You should inspect the sample for any defects, deviations, or issues in the quality, fit, function, or appearance of the product. You should also measure the sample against the tech pack specifications and compare it with the original design sketch, the product brief, and the customer requirements. You should also solicit feedback and input from other stakeholders or departments, such as merchandisers, buyers, and customers, to assess the marketability and profitability of the product.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?