Digital Transformation in Emerging Fashion Economies: A Qualitative Review of CAD/CAM Adoption and Its Implications for Design

This study examines the role of Computer Aided Design and Computer Aided Manufacturing technologies in driving digital transformation within Bangladesh’s apparel industry. The research adopts a systematic literature review approach based on existing academic and industry sources. The analysis focuses on three key areas. These are design transformation, production efficiency, and sustainability outcomes. The findings show that digital tools improve design flexibility and accuracy.

They also enhance production efficiency through faster processes and better coordination. In addition, these technologies support sustainability by reducing material waste and improving resource use. However, the impact of digital transformation depends on factors such as infrastructure, investment, and skill availability. The study highlights that adoption is uneven across firms in Bangladesh. Overall, the research provides an integrated understanding of how CAD and CAM technologies influence the apparel sector in an emerging economy. The study also offers insights for future research and industry practice.

digital transformation, CAD/CAM technologies, apparel industry, Bangladesh, production efficiency, sustainable fashion, fashion technology, systematic review

1. Alam, S. M. S. (2023). Unveiling the effects of ICT adoption in the apparel sector of Bangladesh based on the technology–organization–environment framework. Asia Pacific Journal of Information Systems, 33(4), 977–998. https://doi.org/10.14329/apjis.2023.33.4.977 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

2. Casciani, D., Chkanikova, O., & Pal, R. (2022). Exploring the nature of digital transformation in the fashion industry: Opportunities for supply chains, business models, and sustainability-oriented innovations. Sustainability: Science, Practice and Policy, 18(1), 773–795. https://doi.org/10.1080/15487733.2022.2125640 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

3. Fletcher, K. (2010). Slow fashion: An invitation for systems change. Fashion Practice, 2(2), 259–265. https://doi.org/10.2752/175693810X12774625387594 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

4. Frank, A. G., Dalenogare, L. S., & Ayala, N. F. (2019). Industry 4.0 technologies: Implementation patterns in manufacturing companies. International Journal of Production Economics, 210, 15–26. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijpe.2019.01.004 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

5. Glogar, M. (2025). Digital technologies in the sustainable design and production of textile and fashion products. Sustainability, 17(4), Article 1371. https://doi.org/10.3390/su17041371 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

6. Gwilt, A., & Rissanen, T. (2011). Shaping sustainable fashion: Changing the way we make and use clothes. Fashion Practice, 3(2), 165–170. https://doi.org/10.2752/175693811X13071166586183 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

7. Kozlowski, A., Searcy, C., & Bardecki, M. (2018). The reDesign canvas: Fashion design as a tool for sustainability. Journal of Cleaner Production, 183, 194–207. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2018.02.014 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

8. Nayak, R., & Padhye, R. (2018). Automation in garment manufacturing. Woodhead Publishing. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

9. Sayem, A. S. M. (2022). Digital fashion innovations for the real world and the metaverse. International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology and Education, 15(2), 139–141. https://doi.org/10.1080/17543266.2022.2071139 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

• Block-Based Programming for Education: A Comprehensive Analysis of Visual Programming Environments in K-12 Learning
• Management of Academic Libraries and Client Satisfaction Towards Digital Utilization: Basis for Monitoring Library Operations in SOCCSKSARGEN Region.
• Revenue Leakages in TPA Insurance Claims and Corporate Claims: An Institutional Overview of Aster Prime Hospital, Hyderabad
• Technology and Innovation in Hospitality and Tourism: A Management Perspective
• Geospatial Distribution of Tarok Sacred Grove of Langtang North and Langtang South Local Government Areas