Product line characteristics as determinants of quick response implementation for U.S. apparel manufacturers

The purpose of this study was to identify the implementation of QR technologies by a broad spectrum of U.S. apparel manufacturers and to examine relationships between organizational characteristics and implementation of QR technologies. Conceptual framework for the study was based on the environmental interpretation model in the business domain (Daft & Weick, 1984, p. 284). The implementation level of selected QR technologies was the dependent variable, and the independent variables were product category, fashion change, and seasonal change. A better understanding of QR is needed to increase implementation of this approach to environmental change. A random sample of 306 U.S. apparel manufacturers was selected from a purchased list. A mail questionnaire was pilot tested, and the revised survey questionnaire was sent to plant managers. Adjusted response rate was 47% (n = 103). Descriptive statistics and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used for data analysis. The most frequently used QR technologies were small lot orders, production planning with customer, computerized inven-tory, and short cycle cut planning. Fashion change was significantly related to implementation of QR technologies. This study contributes to the knowledge of the fashion change variable and has implications for strategic planning by U.S. apparel manufacturers. Key Words: quick response