Traditional industries like textile manufacturing have always been away from technology. But the pandemic was a game-changer as it led the sector toward innovation. The change is here to stay, even in the new normal. Things on the factory floor are no longer the same, and technology has also changed the supply chain and marketing processes. But adopting innovation may sound scary to startups running on tight budgets. However, you can embrace it without qualms, provided you are ready to take a strategic approach in the early stages of business. Here are some actionable tech transformation strategies for textile startups.
Set aside a realistic innovation budget
Innovation comes at a cost and may appear out of reach to startups running on a tight budget. But the textile industry is competitive, and missing out on tech transformation can put you out of the race. The best way to move forward is by setting aside a realistic innovation budget according to your current financial capacity. You can start small with transformation in a few areas and cover more processes once your business stabilizes.
Automate where possible
Automation is a wise move for startups because it can save time, money, and effort despite the upfront implementation costs. You can automate a few repetitive processes in your factory to reduce the dependence on manual labor. Likewise, adopting software solutions to automate admin tasks such as employee scheduling, shift management, and performance management is a good idea.
Embrace the digital printing trend
Digital printing is trending, so it should be on top of your wishlist when it comes to tech transformation for your textile startup. Besides investing in equipment, you also need to find a reliable supplier for digital inks to make the most of the initiative. The initial investment may pinch your startup wallet, but it definitely opens up a bigger market for your business. Missing out on the opportunity is the last thing you should do.
Make data-driven decisions
Data and analytics can empower your startup with smarter decisions from the start. Gathering data from the factory floor enables you to identify production lags and potential errors. Likewise, performance data keeps you ahead of employee productivity and efficiency. You can leverage market data to understand your target audience and align your services accordingly. The sooner you become a data-driven business, the better your growth prospects are.
Win the e-commerce game
E-commerce is a norm in all verticals, and the textile segment is no exception. It gives your business more exposure, lowers warehousing costs, and enables you to make the most of the on-demand selling model. The best part is that joining the e-commerce bandwagon is a breeze, as you only need a website to get started. Add a digital marketing plan to ensure visibility and outreach, and you are good to go!
The textile industry is highly competitive, and staying ahead of technology is non-negotiable to survive and thrive. Fortunately, you can embark on the road to innovation, even as a startup. Follow these tips to make the most of digital transformation.