As a professional footwear developer, you play a critical role in the success of the shoes you are working on.
You are not the designer or product manager, but once the shoe is passed into your hands, the outcome is your responsibility. You are responsible for ensuring the shoe is functional, comfortable, on schedule, captures the designer’s intent, and perhaps, most importantly, achieves the target price.
In most companies, the designer moves onto the next project, and the product manager runs the business. The day-to-day operations to keep the development on schedule and in line with the product brief are in your hands as the footwear developer.
I’ve worked as a developer for over 25 years, but I started as a designer and then a product manager. Trust me, I’ve seen all sides of the footwear creation operation. So here is my 10 point footwear developers check list.
Footwear Developer's 10 Point Checklist.
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A shoe last is a crucial component in the shoe development process as it shapes the final fit and form of the footwear. If your project currently lacks a last, it’s important to devise a clear process or plan to obtain one. This may involve reaching out to a specialized supplier or utilizing CAD software to create a custom last tailored to your design specifications. Ensuring that this foundational element is in place is essential for the success of your shoe project.
Thorough and complete design drawings are vital for accurate production and execution of your shoe. If you find that the drawings are not finished it’s crucial to identify who can take charge of completing them. This may involve collaborating with the mold shop or another design team that has the expertise needed to finalize the technical aspects. Clear and detailed drawings will help reduce misunderstandings during the manufacturing process.
Establishing a realistic target price is fundamental in ensuring the viability of your shoe project. If you haven’t set a price yet, it’s essential to evaluate the costs associated with the materials and design and make adjustments where necessary to align with market expectations. Additionally, understanding the duty classification for your shoe can influence pricing and overall profitability, making this knowledge imperative as you move forward.
Identifying potential technical problems early in the development process can save time and resources down the line. If you recognize a design feature that may necessitate new materials or processes, it’s essential to address these concerns proactively. Engaging with your team to brainstorm solutions can help mitigate risks and ensure that your project stays on track without compromising quality or functionality.
New tooling can be a significant investment in the shoe development process. It’s important to assess the tooling options for your project. If new tooling is necessary, confirm that you have an approved budget in place to cover these costs. This financial foresight will help avoid delays and ensure that production can proceed smoothly, ultimately allowing your shoe to reach the market on time.
Creating a realistic timetable for your shoe project is essential for effective project management. By reviewing the technical requirements and potential challenges, you can better anticipate any issues that may arise, allowing for timely adjustments to the schedule. Keeping an eye on deadlines will help maintain momentum and ensure that all stakeholders are aligned with the project’s progress. Items with seasonal timetables cannot slip into the next development cycle. Sandals must be delivered in time for summer sales and boots for winter sales.
Having access to a factory with the right capabilities is critical for the successful production of your shoe. If you do not currently have such a facility, it’s time to start searching for a partner that can meet your specific manufacturing needs. This includes evaluating their technical expertise, machinery, and capacity to ensure they can bring your design vision to life efficiently and effectively.
Reflecting on your own capabilities is crucial to the success of the shoe project. If you find that certain skills or resources are lacking, don’t hesitate to seek help. Collaborating with experts or bringing in additional team members with the right experience can provide the support needed to navigate challenges and elevate the project to new heights.
If you see ANYTHING that will blow up the schedule or price, it is your obligation to let your team members know as soon as possible.
Transparency is key in a development team, especially when it comes to potential setbacks. If you identify any factors that could significantly impact the schedule or increase costs, it’s your responsibility to communicate these concerns to your team immediately. Early awareness of these issues allows for collective problem-solving and helps to minimize disruptions, keeping the project on track.
As a footwear developer, your role is integral to transforming the creative visions of designers into tangible, functional products. Remember that behind every renowned shoe designer is a dedicated developer who ensures that the concept becomes reality. Embrace this responsibility with confidence, knowing that your expertise is what brings innovation and quality to the footwear industry.