Using artificial neural networks to improve decision making in apparel supply chain systems

With the advance of information technology, artificial neural networks (ANNs) are now a ready-to-use technology for all kinds of industries. In this paper, we examine how ANNs can be used to improve decision making in apparel supply chain systems. We focus on four major application areas, namely the data mining of customer's buying preferences, sales forecasting, inventory level prediction, and optimization of marker planning in apparel production. Limitations of ANNs and the future research directions on using ANNs for apparel supply chain management are discussed.