TradeStone’s QA/QC Module contains robust functionality for designers, buyers, merchants and factories alike:

The hundreds of sizing specifications that define the fit of a garment or the construction guidelines for hardlines or consumer electronics are the Points of Measure. These measurements might be as specific as the millimeter size of an ear bud, or the sleeve length from shoulder yoke to cuff. These points of measure models can be invoked by brand, category, a body type, a particular style, department, class, and sub-class.

The Fit Evaluation includes a report outlining the comparison of the actual measurements against the original specifications. The garment is then tested on a live model and adjusted for proper fit. Accordingly, the points of measure can be readjusted and images/photos shared back and forth to better describe the fit issues. The same is true for hardlines and consumer electronics: exacting dimensions, weight, brightness, and other characteristics are measured. Once the test size is approved, the grading is shared with the vendor and factory runs can begin. At the factory Grading takes a fit sample size and mathematically determines the measurement increments for sizes above and below. These measurements can also be calculated cumulatively depending on the specificity of the sizing requirements and the current business practices of the technical designer.

Quality Assurance Testing can be specified for every component in the bill of materials. This might include color fastness testing, color matching, and washability tests; drop and scratch tests for consumer electronics; and even hazardous material handling instructions and social compliance inspection instructions for factories. All these events, including raw materials arrival, production, care labels and special tagging, as well as packaging instructions are included in the product lifecycle. These milestones are noted and reported on by the vendor, approved by the product manager, and forwarded to other stakeholders on a need-to-know basis.