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Author ORCID Identifier

[https://orcid.org/0000-0001-2345-6789]

Date Available

10-6-2026

Year of Publication

2026

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

College

Agriculture, Food and Environment

Department/School/Program

Retailing and Tourism Management

Faculty

Elizabeth Easter

Faculty

Tracy Lu

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to provide a better understanding of how 3D CAD Software impacts the New Product Development Process of Intimate Apparel.  As a category, Intimate Apparel falls behind other categories in adopting new technology.  Interviews were conducted with industry professionals to explore their adoption and use of 3D CAD Software.  Two case studies were also conducted to compare the adoption strategies of a small and a large company.  Data coding of the interviews and case studies revealed similar relationships and common themes across all participants.  Findings show that the strategic implementation of 3D CAD Software reduces sample iterations and lead time, enhances cross-functional team communication, and supports earlier decision-making on fit, pattern adjustments, and material selection.  The research also identified barriers to the use and adoption of technology.  These include limitations on material digitalization, training time, and reduced fit model input.  The study contributes a practical framework for integrating 3D CAD software into the New Product Development Process of Intimate Apparel.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

https://doi.org/10.13023/etd.2026.133

Archival?

Archival

Funding Information

This research was supported by the Kilpatrick Fellowship in 2025 and the Buster Research Grant in 2025-2026.

Available for download on Tuesday, October 06, 2026

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