Production errors are one of the most costly and time-consuming challenges in fashion manufacturing. Whether it’s incorrect sizing, material inconsistencies, or miscommunication with factories, even small mistakes can lead to delays, waste, and expensive reworks.

The key to reducing these issues lies in accurate POM (Points of Measurement) and BOM (Bill of Materials) management. When managed correctly, these two essential components ensure proper fit, material consistency, and efficient production workflows.

This article explains how accurate POM & BOM management improves efficiency, minimizes costly production errors, and enhances communication between design and manufacturing teams.

What is POM (Points of Measurement)?

POM (Points of Measurement) refers to the specific measurement points on a garment that ensure size consistency and proper fit across different sizes. These measurements are included in tech packs sent to manufacturers.

Why Accurate POM Matters:

• Prevents Sizing Errors – Ensures all sizes maintain correct proportions.

• Reduces Sample Revisions – Clear measurement guidelines speed up approvals.

• Standardizes Fit Across Collections – Avoids inconsistencies between production runs.

Common POM Examples:

| POM Code | Measurement | Purpose |
| --- | --- | --- |
| A1 | Chest Width | Ensures correct bust fit |
| B2 | Shoulder to Shoulder | Prevents tight or loose shoulder fit |
| C3 | Sleeve Length | Maintains sleeve proportion |
| D4 | Inseam Length | Controls pant leg fit

✔ How PLM Helps:

• Stores accurate POM data across different styles and sizes.

• Tracks sample measurements vs. production measurements to prevent factory deviations.

✔ How ERP Helps:

• Automates QC inspections, ensuring final garments match POM specifications.

Example: A premium denim brand reduced fit complaints by 40% by standardizing POM guidelines inside their PLM system.

What is BOM (Bill of Materials)?

The Bill of Materials (BOM) is a detailed list of all materials, components, and trims required to produce a garment. It ensures consistency, cost control, and material accuracy across production runs.

Why Accurate BOM Matters:

• Prevents Material Shortages & Delays – Ensures factories receive the right components in the right quantities.

• Reduces Waste & Overordering – Avoids unnecessary raw material costs.

• Improves Cost Estimation – Helps brands accurately price products and maintain profit margins.

Common BOM Components:

| BOM Category | Item | Details |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Main Fabric | Organic Cotton | 250 GSM, GOTS-certified |
| Lining | Polyester | 100% recycled |
| Trims | Metal Zippers | YKK, 5-inch, silver |
| Labels | Woven Brand Tag | 2cm x 4cm, black on white

✔ How PLM Helps:

• Centralizes material lists across collections for consistency.

• Ensures accurate supplier details and certifications are attached to each component.

✔ How ERP Helps:

• Automates material ordering based on BOM requirements to prevent shortages.

• Tracks supplier costs and lead times to optimize production planning.

Example: A streetwear brand cut material waste by 30% by optimizing their BOM with real-time supplier inventory data.

How Poor POM & BOM Management Leads to Production Errors

| Issue | Cause | Impact |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Inconsistent Sizing | Incorrect or missing POM data | High return rates, customer dissatisfaction |
| Fabric & Trim Shortages | Inaccurate BOM tracking | Production delays, increased costs |
| Manufacturing Defects | Factories using outdated measurement guides | Costly rework, wasted materials |
| Excess Inventory Costs | Overordering due to inaccurate BOM | Unnecessary material storage costs

✔ How PLM & ERP Prevent These Issues:

• PLM ensures POM accuracy, reducing size-related production issues.

• ERP prevents BOM errors, ensuring factories receive the correct materials on time.

Example: A luxury outerwear brand avoided a $50,000 production loss by catching a fabric overorder issue in their BOM system before materials were purchased.

Best Practices for POM & BOM Accuracy

1. Standardize POM Across Collections

• Use a POM template for all styles to maintain fit consistency.

• Include grading rules to ensure accurate size scaling.

2. Automate BOM Updates

• Use PLM software to link materials to product designs.

• Ensure BOM updates reflect supplier availability and cost changes.

3. Sync POM & BOM with Factories

• Share real-time POM and BOM data via PLM & ERP.

• Conduct automated QC checks to catch errors before production.

✔ How ERP Helps:

• Automates real-time order adjustments based on updated BOMs.

Example: A swimwear brand reduced misproduction by 60% after switching to a fully digital BOM system that auto-updated factory orders.

Final Thoughts: Why POM & BOM Accuracy Matters

By ensuring accurate Points of Measurement (POM) and Bill of Materials (BOM) management, fashion brands can:

• Reduce costly production errors and sample reworks

• Ensure consistent fit across all collections

• Optimize material usage and prevent overordering

• Improve supplier coordination and prevent delays

The combination of PLM for design accuracy and ERP for supply chain efficiency is essential to eliminating costly mistakes and ensuring smooth production.

Next Steps:

• Book a KOBO PLM demo to streamline POM & BOM accuracy.

• Download our POM & BOM Optimization Checklist.

• Learn how ERP prevents material shortages and overordering.