Zara Case

Zara :* IT for Fast Fashion* (Case Report)

*Date of Submission :* 01 Oct 2009

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Executive Summary: My decision is to implement the new IT infrastructure in theZara. I would like to draw the attention on the issue of Inditex’s DOS-base IT infrastructure and how it affects Zara’s performance. Inditex is concerned about its IT system being antiquated and the possibility that hardware vendors will upgrade their machines leaving them incompatible with DOS. Because Zara’s core business model is vertically integrated, it could specialise in speed and efficiency and the fast fashion trend. By assessing the pros and cons of the new IT infrastructure with Zara’s brand image, I would recommend to implement the new POS networking system is beneficial for Zara. There are few reasons to change the IT system are mentioned below:-

(c) Within a store, POS terminals and PDA’s could not share information

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Recommendation:

(a) Upgrade to new OS based POS hardware and software, new modems and add new functionalities to the system.

(b) Re-engineer the POS system with custom software for ordering, manufacturing and distribution integrated fully over a high speed network.

(c) Maintain current DOS based POS system for ordering, fulfillment and design processes.

STATEMENT OF ISSUE(S): The main issue in my opinion is to introduce the modern information technology infrastructure in the Zara to get more information and data fastly in respect of production, inventory and distribution and all other fields of the company to every individual concerned for gaining more accurate strategic supply chain management. Because due to lack of modern information technology, it’s always risky to work on system that are so far behind current technology. It’s easier to breakdown or hack these systems (even when they’re connected to any network). DOS is not supported by Microsoft anymore. Since most of the POS hardware available in market use windows based operating system, it is...