In this article, the author posits how the “digital consumer” can become a valuable partner for textile and apparel product development/design and production firms. Inspiration and insight for product development/design and production is available through digital technology via blogs, mass customization, and rich media (e.g., virtual models). This article also discusses the need for the textile and apparel industry to understand the full range of human–computer interface experience (i.e., how the consumer responds to the information, interface, and interactive functions of the digital medium such as a Web site) to ensure successful partnerships and implementation of digital technology.
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