What is Mass Customization?

Mass Customization is the use of a limited number of styles and fabrics to make garments that are customized to an individual's measurements.  For example, a shirt company may give it's customers the option of several colors of fabric, several collar styles such as button down or spread, French or regular cuffs with one or two buttons, and one, two, or no pockets.  The customer provides his/her measurements and selects from the options given.  The company then uses computer programs to alter the appropriate patterns to fit the customer's measurements, cuts the appropriate pieces from the selected fabric and delivers a "custom" shirt. 

Because the patterns are already on the company's computers and the choices are limited, turn-around is relatively fast and the cost is much lower than most custom made garments.

Sharon Stevens, HES Extension, College of Human Environmental Sciences,
University of Missouri-Columbia