#United States #Campbell #Image Solutions #Product Development #Centric PLM

Image Solutions Inc. Partners with Centric PLM

In a significant move aimed at enhancing its operational efficiency, Image Solutions Inc., a premier uniform retailer, has opted for Centric PLM™ from Centric Software®. This choice comes as part of their strategic initiative to centralize product development processes and boost collaboration with suppliers.

Background of Image Solutions

Founded in 1997, Image Solutions operates a complicated global supply chain involving over 46 vendors. The company specializes in producing custom uniforms, relying heavily on precise color and material coding to meet customer needs. Until recently, they faced considerable challenges with their previous product lifecycle management (PLM) system, which was inadequate for their growing requirements. The old system provided limited visibility, did not integrate well across departments, and lacked scalability. This resulted in inefficient communication and isolated data silos that hampered the company's ability to respond swiftly to market demands.

Emily Best, Process Excellence Specialist at Image Solutions and instrumental in the Centric PLM rollout, noted the critical issues her team faced, stating, "So much was happening through email, Teams, and ticketing systems; information was getting lost. We needed structure and visibility. Centric Software delivered that and more."

The Decision for Centric PLM

The decision to implement Centric PLM was driven by several key factors, including the desired ease of use and the potential for future flexibility. Best highlighted the importance of functionality, indicating that Image Solutions had been contemplating a vendor portal for years but found their previous system lacking in this area. Thankfully, Centric PLM not only provided the necessary capabilities but also offered a strong implementation support team to guide them through the entire process.

The onboarding process began with the product development and technical design teams, and there are plans to extend the implementation to include sourcing, finance, supply chain, and other departments. The transition meant that workflows that were once manual and fragmented are now centralized and easily monitored. Best emphasizes, "Now our product lifecycle is fully visible and actionable, all consolidated in one location that is simple to track."

Gains from Implementing Centric PLM

With the adaptation of Centric PLM, Image Solutions now boasts a robust, structured platform that enhances visibility across the product lifecycle. They have managed to allow real-time access to essential product data throughout the organization. The software’s user-friendly interface enabled the configuration of crucial tools, such as material and color libraries, without needing extensive technical skills.

Best also pointed out that the change significantly improved reporting and insights, which were previously unavailable. The organization is already witnessing measurable advancements in speed and operational efficiency due to this transformational process. "We have eliminated manual workflows and greatly reduced our dependency on emails and spreadsheets," she added.

Future Prospects

As Image Solutions forges ahead with Centric PLM, the company anticipates the implementation of a Centric PLM Vendor Portal that will further streamline communication and collaboration with suppliers. This move aligns perfectly with their aim to sustain competitive advantages in an ever-evolving market.

Fabrice Canonge, President of Centric Software, expressed enthusiasm regarding this partnership, stating, "We’re proud to welcome Image Solutions to the Centric Software family. Their decision to adopt Centric PLM showcases a forward-thinking commitment to refining product development and boosting collaboration organization-wide." Canonge highlighted the importance of centralizing operations to meet the growing demands in today's fast-paced environment.

Image Solutions Inc. continues its trajectory of growth while maintaining its commitment to delivering exceptional apparel solutions that enhance team identity across various sectors, from hospitality to healthcare. As they adapt to a digitally transformed landscape, they are set to redefine their design and operational standards for the betterment of their clients and the communities they serve.

About Centric Software

Centric Software, headquartered in Silicon Valley, offers a ground-breaking AI-enabled platform tailored for retailers, brands, and manufacturers of all sizes. With industry-specific solutions that span across fashion, luxury, and a variety of retail categories, Centric Software empowers its clients to innovate and streamline their product journey from conception to commercialization.

This partnership marks a pivotal moment for Image Solutions as they continue their mission to elevate brand identity and create memorable experiences across North America’s recognizable businesses.