Sourcing digitalization
Why It’s Time to Retire Excel: Meet Dobby’s Fabric WIP Tracker
TL;DR Summary:
Excel was never built for modern fabric management. Dobby’s Fabric WIP Tracker replaces static spreadsheets with live visibility, automated updates, and supplier chat — so you can track every hanger, meet every deadline, and finally say goodbye to manual emails and formulas.
For decades, Excel has been the go-to tool for managing work-in-progress (WIP). It’s flexible, familiar, and powerful — but it’s also old. Introduced in 1985, Excel was never designed for the complex, fast-moving world of fabric discovery, sourcing, and sampling.
You can make it work — with formulas, filters, and endless spreadsheet versions — but maintaining accuracy and visibility quickly becomes a full-time job. Google Sheets doesn’t fix that either.
Introducing the Fabric WIP Tracker — Built for the Fashion Supply Chain
Dobby’s new Fabric WIP Tracker gives you a purpose-built way to manage every stage of fabric development and hanger shipments, all in one connected system.
- Set and meet expectations: Track due dates, ETAs, and shipments in real time.
- Stay automatically updated: Dobby sends notifications and reminders — no more chasing suppliers or typing manual emails.
- Collaborate with confidence: Chat directly with suppliers, keep every message linked to the shipment, and maintain a full communication history.
No complicated formulas. No maintenance. No version control issues. Just visibility that works.
Real-Time Insight, Real Results
With Excel, you see static data. With Dobby, you see everything happening now.
- Want to know how many hangers have been selected for samples or RFQs? Done.
- Want to see which suppliers are most responsive — and who’s holding up progress? It’s right there.
- Need to share updates across your sourcing or merchandising teams? They’re already connected.
Every click replaces a manual task. Every insight saves a day of follow-up.
From Chaos to Clarity
Fashion sourcing doesn’t stand still. Your tracking tools shouldn’t either. With Dobby’s Fabric WIP Tracker, you can manage complexity with confidence — and spend your time making decisions, not maintaining spreadsheets.
👉 Book a demo to see how the Fabric WIP Tracker can simplify your sourcing workflow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Fabric WIP Tracker?
It’s Dobby’s digital tool for tracking fabric development, hanger shipments, and supplier communication — all in one connected platform.
How is it different from Excel or Google Sheets?
Unlike spreadsheets, the WIP Tracker updates automatically, manages notifications, and connects directly to your suppliers. No formulas or manual follow-ups needed.
Can I use it with my existing workflow?
Yes. The tracker integrates easily into your current process, replacing manual spreadsheets without disrupting your sourcing rhythm.
Does it track supplier performance?
Yes. You can see which suppliers respond fastest, track delays, and keep a full record of all communication.
What’s the biggest benefit?
You gain complete visibility into every shipment, save hours of admin time, and meet deadlines more consistently — all while staying focused on design and sourcing decisions.
