A recent discussion led by Abdullah Abo Milhim highlights the integration of big data analytics and AI in reshaping fashion business models and driving sustainability.
In an era increasingly defined by technological advancements, a recent discussion led by Abdullah Abo Milhim, Postgraduate Programme Leader at the Istituto Marangoni School of Fashion, focused on the integration of Big Data Analytics (BDA) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the fashion industry. The event took place in a city setting, where Abo Milhim shared insights on “The Fashion Value Chain in the Age of Big Data, Analytics & AI,” underlining the implications for modern fashion business models and strategies.
Big Data, as outlined by Abo Milhim, refers to the substantial volumes of structured and unstructured data collected, stored, and analyzed in real-time. This wealth of data allows fashion brands to gain a deeper understanding of consumer behavior and various supply chain variables. Abo Milhim explained that as personalization becomes more critical in the industry, Big Data “provides insights that could lead to an in-depth understanding of trends across the whole supply chain.” This suggests that accurate data analysis can significantly improve areas such as trend forecasting, supply chain management, and stock control.
The discussion highlighted the disruptions occurring within the fashion industry due to changing consumer habits. Abo Milhim pointed out that through a comprehensive understanding of trends and changes, BDA can allow brands to create more cost-effective approaches to meet shifting consumer demands while enhancing productivity.
Illustrating the advantages of BDA and AI, Abo Milhim emphasized their potential to merge seamlessly with existing business frameworks. “As data is collected from multiple sources, AI provides ample opportunities to understand behavior through various data sets,” he stated. This integration enables brands to better predict patterns in consumer behavior, particularly within smart store environments where machine learning can optimize business analytics.
While much of the focus has been on luxury brands employing data analytics for innovation, Abo Milhim noted that smaller businesses are also leveraging these tools. He described how BDA is a vital asset for smaller enterprises, enabling them to respond agilely to emerging trends revealed through data analysis, thereby reshaping their business models effectively despite limited resources compared to their larger counterparts.
Sustainability was another critical topic addressed in Abo Milhim’s discussion. BDA’s ability to enhance information sharing among stakeholders promotes responsible behavior in business transactions. He pointed out that when paired with AI, data analytics could help brands reduce waste and improve inventory management, ultimately fostering a more sustainable approach to fashion production.
Moreover, the dialogue included inquiries about the intersection of luxury fashion and technology. Abo Milhim assured that incorporating AI into the production process would not dilute craftsmanship. He explained that luxury brands are harnessing AI to fine-tune their understanding of consumer preferences, thereby enabling personalized offerings without relinquishing their heritage and traditional techniques.
Describing the advantages of BDA and AI-driven retail environments, Abo Milhim detailed how these technologies facilitate real-time data flow that aids in tracking conversion rates and stock levels, allowing brands to respond effectively to immediate market demands.
When discussing the transition to data-driven business models, Abo Milhim identified five critical considerations: fostering a culture of digital transformation, recognizing how the new model can sustain value, preserving brand identity, aligning with stakeholder values, and maintaining ethics in data use.
As technological advancements continue to progress, tools such as IBM’s Cognitive Prints aim to revolutionize the design process by enabling AI to generate patterns autonomously. However, Abo Milhim raises a pertinent question regarding the interaction of AI with indigenous practices and the traditional roots of design, emphasizing that “nothing beats the human touch.” He highlights that, although AI can support forecasting trends and analyzing data, the essence of creativity in design remains irreplaceable.
Finally, Abo Milhim acknowledged the complexities of how BDA and AI might intersect with existing societal issues, including body image, gender, and racial disparities. He emphasized that by personalizing products and understanding diverse consumer perspectives, brands could adapt their marketing strategies to address these nuanced social concerns effectively.
Throughout the session, Abo Milhim argued against the notion that psychological mapping and data-driven decisions could stifle creativity. He maintained that while technology may replicate certain design processes, the unique and innovative elements of design will persist, underscored by the lasting relevance of creativity in shaping the future of the fashion industry.
Source: Noah Wire Services
