5 Tips for Production Planning

If you’re new to manufacturing it can feel very scary to start planning your first production! So, to help you get started (or refine your process) here are my 5 top tips for a smooth production process. I often compare production planning to project management because there are multiple elements to the process you need to consider and align, so take time to put a plan together.

TIP #1

Work backward from your desired launch date, how much time do you have for each stage of the process? Do you need to adjust your launch date? It’s always good to have a goal but be flexible with that goal. Especially when you’re working with a new supplier, you need to learn how they work.

In your initial conversations, your manufacturer should be able to give you an estimated time for each step of the process, tech pack review, quotations, sampling, and production. Start planning it out from this estimated timeline.

TIP #2

Allow time for edits and resampling in your developmental stage. It’s likely there will be some edits during the process, don’t let these catch you out!

Think about if you need to get specific fabrics or trims to your manufacturer. If so, consider this in your production planning schedule, how long will it take to ship these to the supplier?

TIP #3

Keep in touch with your manufacturer throughout the process. Delays happen when you become complacent, check-in at all key points. Stick to phone or video calls, rather than sending multiple emails, this will support a positive relationship with your supplier.

Ask your manufacturer for the lead time at the point of placing the order (this will be your most accurate estimate) and enquire about their quality control (QC) process, it’s important you know how everything is checked before it’s sent!

TIP #4

If you are manufacturing overseas, make sure you have registered for an EORI number. This is required for importing and will prevent your goods from being held at customs, it’s free to register and takes approximately 10 working days, so do it as soon as you know you’re importing goods.

TIP #5

Allow yourself some time once your order has arrived. Avoid feeling frazzled and overwhelmed! Ensure you have ample time for your own quality control checks and to look over your order in full before selling.

Tracking production is an ongoing process, things can often change throughout. I recommend tracking your production in real time. The best way to plan your production is to be realistic with timeframes and lead times. Adding a buffer into your planning will allow space for delays, whilst avoiding potential stress and issues in a tight lead time: if something is due to take 4 weeks, add in a week or two for delays, giving yourself 6 weeks.

I have created a downloadable Excel document for you to use. It’ll keep you on track with an estimated ‘ready to go’ date, you can update it at each stage of your production process, and it will also allow you to look back and manage future production runs!

If this sounds like something you need, sign up to my mailing list for your free tracker! ✨