Custom software for custom fashion processes

I’ve long wondered why the fashion industry produces goods for stock without knowing whether they will actually sell. It was clear to me that production based on guesswork cannot be economically viable or sustainable in the long run.

Customization offers a different approach: production only begins once a specific customer order has been placed. This reduces overproduction, inventory, and waste of resources. This combination of sustainability, digitalization, and customer benefit continues to fascinate me to this day.

“pod Pattern on Demand®” is a software platform for the digital and automated processing of customized apparel. It integrates configurators, CAD, ERP systems, and production processes into a seamless workflow. 

As the platform’s success grew, I sought a development partner who could professionally handle its technical advancement and ensure its long-term sustainability. With soxes, development expertise could be distributed among several specialists. At the same time, a strong team was formed that continuously refines the software.

“pod Pattern on Demand®” integrates an online configurator, a CAD system, and production planning into a seamless digital process. Data flows automatically through the entire chain from the customer order through pattern making to production without the need for multiple entries or manual transfers. This reduces errors, saves time, and makes it economically viable to produce customized products.

Many steps that used to be done manually are now automated. These include creating custom patterns based on the order, generating layout diagrams, and providing production data for cutting. In the past, information had to be transferred between systems or entered multiple times. Today, this process is standardized. This increases process reliability and ensures that even rising order volumes can be handled reliably.

What I remember most is the search for the right partner to develop our first configurator. I contacted various companies, held discussions, and requested quotes.

Even during my first visit to soxes, I had a special feeling. I was taken seriously, my ideas were understood, and they took a close look at my requirements. Instead of presenting me with a standard solution, they wanted to understand what I really wanted to achieve.

Our collaboration has always been very collaborative and constructive. Since I used to work in software development myself, I was able to convey the requirements of the apparel industry in a way that made sense both from a business and technical perspective. This made communication much easier.

I deliberately gave the soxes team the freedom to contribute their own ideas. It is precisely this combination of industry knowledge and technical expertise that has led to the development of highly practical solutions over the years.

I have particularly fond memories of my visits to Vietnam and the stays of soxes employees in Switzerland. These meetings have greatly contributed to mutual understanding and trust. Over the years, this has led to the development of much more than just a business relationship.

The biggest challenge over the years has been financing ongoing development. A specialized platform like “pod Pattern on Demand®” requires long-term investment. It has always been clear to me that standing still means falling behind. That’s why I’ve reinvested a large portion of the revenue back into further development.

In doing so, I deliberately chose a different path than many of today’s startups. It was never important to me to raise capital first and then promise what might be possible someday. I wanted to develop solutions that work in practice and whose benefits I can demonstrate. Looking back, this long-term strategy has paid off.

The biggest advantage is that, over the years, we have developed a deep shared understanding —not only of the software itself, but also of the underlying business processes and the unique characteristics of the apparel industry.

Even after 15 years, I still see great potential for further developing our platform. For me, a key focus for the future is the meaningful integration of artificial intelligence. This isn’t about using AI for its own sake, but rather where it creates real added value for users and processes.

In addition, we want to further expand the process and business logic within the platform. Equally important to me is ensuring the long-term availability of expertise, support, and ongoing development. Thanks to our close collaboration with soxes, we now have a strong team that understands the platform, the processes, and the needs of our customers.

I can wholeheartedly recommend soxes as a development partner. I particularly appreciate the open and honest collaboration on equal terms. We discuss ideas, tackle challenges together, and develop solutions with an eye toward long-term success.

For companies looking for a partner who listens, thinks proactively, and takes on long-term responsibility, soxes is, in my view, an excellent choice. Our 15-year partnership speaks for itself.