Recently a new client to natific asked about the benefits and savings they would achieve by working with us. We took a look at their lab dip approvals and compared it with current production statistics from existing clients. The graph below shows the data.
Measurable improvements that support the delivery of these figures are the annual saving:
- Lead-time saving for first round of color matching about 4-5 days
- Design/developing team will save on average 15% to 20% of their time
looking at lab dips and supporting administration - Cost saving per new lab dip about $65
- Cost per courier about $40
Simultaneously, sustainability goals are organically supported and delivered through; less re-dyeing i.e. less use of dyes, water and energy, saved overtime for labor, and less lab dips sent by airfreight.
How to move towards the figures in the graph? Previously in natific news, we looked at the possibility to foresee problem scenarios in the production to actively address potential issues prior to manufacture. It was identified as highly valuable for those with design, sourcing, and color responsibility to have the understanding of industry best practice color techniques and digital tools, which immediately can improve efficiency.
Training as the new inspection. Members of the creative teams from the brands HUGO and Hugo Boss Woman participated in a natific color skill workshop. The day included insights into the physical and psychophysical influences of visual color perception and color approval, relating to how this affects every person in the industry and efficiency of supply chains. And much more that supports the fast track figures.
What might seem like small insignificant differences in the method of visual and digital color assessment at the office compared to the supplier can in fact be the root cause to significant delays and additional weeks of discussions, increased numbers of lab dip submissions and approvals that are not fully satisfying.
Some of the common differences:
- When looking at a sample in a controlled light viewing cabinet, do you fold the sample in same way as other viewers? (The industry preferred norm has evolved to fold the sample four times, till achieving no transmission of light and if there is a surface on the material there should be a specified viewing direction)
- When viewing the sample, is it attached to an optical white paper? (This will change the color perception). Or you might even be looking at the sample at your desk with multiple lights and colors impacting the shade? (This is a no-no)
- How big size is the size of the swatch standard or lab dip that you send and receive? (The visual perception of a thumbnail versus a full color standard has a big impact on the perception. The industry preference of 10×10 as minimum allows correct folding and presentation. Only by doing digital assessment one will truly know for sure for smaller swatches)
(You might want to compare to your supply chain’s color approval procedures against the examples)