MATS22031

Fashion Product Development

Unit Handbook 2025-26

This unit introduces students to the concept of product development management in the fashion apparel sector. Product development  theory is established and concepts including design inspiration, range planning and trend analysis. Students will develop and build ranges and design concepts for collections, working through all stages of the product development life cycles, underpinned by market data collection. The skills gained will enhance students’ ability to effectively communicate across all levels of the business. Students are required to study and analyse a current trend to demonstrate their seasonal trend awareness. Students will also have to carry out some analysis of the market and using their understanding of the trend as well as their market findings, carry out a trend translation and develop a range, considering the appropriateness for the target consumer and brand.

This handbook should be read in conjunction with the Department of Materials Undergraduate or Postgraduate Programme Handbook - due to the move from Canvas to Canvas this link is not currently available but once available, it will be distributed.

This unit aims to:

•    Develop an understanding of the product development process with a particular focus on range planning and trend analysis.

•    Draw links between textile technology and the finished garment.

•    Demonstrate the links between marketing and product development.

3. Intended Learning Outcomes

1 Knowledge and understanding

1A. Interpret the relevant product development theory relating to apparel

1B. Demonstrate the links between marketing and the product development process

1C. Develop process awareness of the stages involved in product development for the fashion industry ensuring accuracy in decision making within the process

1D, Have an appreciation of various product development methods using trends and market analysis tools

Contributing to the programme learning outcomes:

A1. Systematically describe, analyse and appraise the structure of global fashion, textiles and related industries, with focus on the emerging issues of markets, services, consumer expectations within the macro-environment.

A6. Appreciate the role of design, creativity and visual concepts and their interrelation, in a commercial context, using digital multi-media (CAD) technologies where appropriate to develop and communicate these concepts.

A7. Interpret the language of imagery and symbolic content in fashion consumption, with particular reference to forecasting, branding and product development for the fashion and textile industries.

A8. Articulate the processes, procedures and practices of the global fashion industry.

A9. Demonstrate an understanding of product requirements, innovation, enterprise and cost issues in relation to textile and garment production.

2 Intellectual skills

2A, Apply knowledge of product development to carry out a practical product development project

2B, Analyse trends using knowledge of trend development and prediction methodologies

2C, Draw on knowledge from marketing units to link features of product development with the marketing concept

2D, Synthesise methods of market research to inform. fashion brands strategic product decisions

Contributing to the programme learning outcomes:

B1. Identify and conceptualise appropriate theories, applying them to the fashion and textile industry.

B2. Synthesise, assess and evaluate information and data from appropriate sources and use these to make informed, independent judgments and decision making in relation to technical product and/or business contexts

B4. Exercise original thinking and independent learning to design and execute a project to evaluate and analyse a business concept or a technical aspect of garment or textiles products.

3 Practical Skills

3A, Articulate and synthesise market and trend data through planning, conducting and evaluating research

3B, Produce product development visualisation boards and information appropriate for the fashion industry

3C, Work independently to source information from a wide range of sources

Contributing to the programme learning outcomes:

C2. Select, evaluate and use relevant software applications, including spreadsheets, CAD software, business applications, etc., for different tasks such as data analysis or design communication, within the context of Fashion and Textiles industry.

C3. Act Autonomously with limited supervision or direction within negotiated guidelines, individually and as part of a team.

C4. Identify and employ appropriate sources of information.

C6 Use practical design communication methods effectively in fashion and textile context.

4 Transferable skills and personal qualities

Transferable skills and personal qualities

4A. Communicate key concepts visually and in a written format and organise material effectively

Contributing to the programme learning outcomes::

D1. An ability to act ethically and communicate appropriately in a variety of complex and unpredictable contexts.

D3. Clear and effective communication, using a range of styles and employing various media appropriate to the context.

D4. Effective engagement in problem solving, academic discussion and presentation of arguments in a professional manner to both specialist and non-specialist audiences.

D5. Critical reflection upon own performance and use this to identify areas for personal development as part of a lifelong learning strategy and a foundation for continuing professional development.

D7. An understanding of factors that enhance group processes; leadership, negotiation and team working, evaluating own effectiveness with a team and modifying own behaviour as appropriate.

D8. An ability to apply creative and visual sensibilities in a commercial context

4. Teaching and Learning Process

This unit is delivered using a blended learning approach, which integrates technology and digital media with traditional classroom activities. A variety of learning and teaching processes will be used including: lectures, discussions, group activities and independent study. Canvas will be used to present online study materials, including videos, lecture notes, guided reading, articles and other information. Canvas will also be used for the submission of assessments.