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OCCUPATIONAL STANDARD
ADVANCED APPAREL
PRODUCTION
NTQF LEVEL III
Ministry of Education
March 2011
Introduction
Ethiopia has embarked on a process of reforming its TVET-System. Within the policies
and strategies of the Ethiopian Government, technology transformation – by using
international standards and international best practices as the basis, and, adopting,
adapting and verifying them in the Ethiopian context – is a pivotal element. TVET is
given an important role with regard to technology transfer. The new paradigm in the
outcome-based TVET system is the orientation at the current and anticipated future
demand of the economy and the labor market.
The Ethiopia Occupational Standards (EOS) is the core element of the Ethiopian
National TVET-Strategy and an important factor within the context of the Ethiopian
TVET-Qualification Framework (NTQF).They are national Ethiopia standards, which
define the occupational requirements and expected outcome related to a specific
occupation without taking TVET delivery into account.
This document details the mandatory format, sequencing, wording and layout for the
Ethiopia Occupational Standard which comprised of Units of Competence.
Together all the parts of a Unit of Competence guide the assessor in determining
whether the candidate is competent.
The ensuing sections of this EOS document comprise a description of the respective
occupational level with all the key components of a Unit of Competence:
chart with an overview of all Units of Competence for the respective level including
the Unit Codes and the Unit Titles
contents of each Unit of Competence (competence standard)
occupational map providing the technical and vocational education and training
(TVET) providers with information and important requirements to consider when
designing training programs for this standards and for individual, a career path
Variable Range
Design concept purchasing trips
development storyboards
processes inspiration boards
may include: research
teamwork
event participation
attendance at fashion shows
experimentation with fabrics, materials, designs, etc.
draping
use of models for original creation, or adaptation of designs or
interpretation of sketches within contexts related to single or
multiple production styles and ranges, made-to-measure and
theatre costuming
Design process May include:
The design process for this unit comprises an awareness level
understanding of the process to respond to a work brief,
including researching sources of information, creating art and
design work including prototypes and first drafts, and using
design tools such as illustrations, software programs, modeling
materials, etc. It also includes an awareness of commercial
concepts such as:
type of production
costs
timing
equipment - available and needed
marketing and sales
availability of raw materials and required resources
Elements of May include :
design may line
include: shape/silhouette
color and texture
value
2. Create original 2.1 Design concept is created and prepared for presentation.
design 2.2 Designs are reviewed against brief and with client, and
modified as required to gain approval for development.
2.3 Design concept is developed using appropriate tools and
equipment and according to OHS practices.
2.4 Design specifications are developed to guide production.
2.5 Routine minor maintenance is performed according to
manufacturer specifications.
2.6 Designs are stored, organized and protected.
3. Edit design 3.1 Suitable designs or images are selected for editing.
3.2 Designs are imported into software programs.
3.3 Designs are edited to achieve design objectives.
3.4 Production specifications are determined.
3.5 Designs are stored, organized and protected
4. Present design 4.1 Design concept is presented for feedback.
for feedback 4.2 Feedback is received and considered in line with design
objectives.
4.3 Design concept is modified and improved where possible
5. Clean up 5.1 Workbench/station is cleaned and set up to make ready for
the next tasks and in according to OHS practices.
5.2 Tools, equipment and materials are cleaned and stored to
proper places
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Variable Range
Regulatory All work must comply with relevant Federal and Regional State
requirements legislative or regulatory requirements
Specifications May include:
content
color
dimensions
stitch type and size
font
fill
Garment May include:
considerations type of fabric
color of fabric
positioning of design
suitability of size, design, color
Machine May include:
requirements thread type
needle type
stitch settings
spool requirements
Tools and May include:
equipment computer
software programs
hardware peripherals such as scanners, printers
paper, pens
templates
Edited May include:
manipulation of height, scale, skew, rotation, width, length,
fonts, fill, baseline, envelopes, borders, spacing, needle
penetration, stitch size and type, color
changes to content, style, finish
OHS practices manual handling techniques following marked walkways
may include: standard operating safe storage of equipment
procedures housekeeping
personal protective equipment reporting accidents and
safe materials handling incidents
taking of rest breaks other OHS practices relevant
ergonomic arrangement of to the job and enterprise
workplaces
Minor routine checking and replacement of needles, attachments and/or parts
maintenance oiling of machine parts
may include:
Variable Range
OHS practices Include hazard identification and control, risk assessment and
implementation of risk reduction measures specific to the tasks
described by this unit, and may relate to:
standard operating procedures
personal protective equipment
safe materials handling
taking of rest breaks
ergonomic arrangement of workplaces
housekeeping
reporting accidents and incidents
Tools and Personal Computer
equipment Computer Software
Plotter
Digitizer/Scanner
Evidence Guide
Critical Aspects Demonstrates skills and knowledge to:
of Competence operate a plotter to construct two dimensional drawings, mark
out templates, or cut shapes in material
operate a desk top or lap top computer and relevant software
comply with all relevant safety requirements, including safe use
of plotting tables for cutting out materials
interpret work orders and interpret customer information
interpret specifications for components that are to form part of
finished products
document and communicate work related information
Underpinning Demonstrates knowledge of:
Knowledge and range of products and services offered by the workplace
Attitudes product construction processes
computer hardware and software packages used in the
Variable Range
OHS practices May include:
OHS practices include hazard identification and control, risk
assessment and implementation of risk reduction measures
specific to the tasks described by this unit, and may relate to:
manual handling techniques
standard operating procedures
personal protective equipment
safe materials handling and safe storage of equipment
ergonomic arrangement of workplaces
housekeeping
reporting accidents and incidents
Patternmaking May include:
tools and pattern blocks
equipment scissors
ruler and square rule
marker pens
Evidence Guide
Critical aspects Demonstrates skills and knowledge to:
of Competence understand and apply correct pattern and garment
terminology
identify, select and use the appropriate tools and equipment
for patternmaking
select the appropriate block and develop a pattern
apply the patternmaking principles of square block and dart
manipulation in developing patterns according to the
specifications and workplace quality standards
cut out and label pattern pieces accurately
apply OHS practices in work operations
maintain accurate records
Underpinning Demonstrates knowledge of:
Knowledge and patternmaking principles and concept
Attitudes patternmaking and design terminology
pattern markings
patternmaking tools and equipment
basic mathematics and calculations
design and style features
fabric performance characteristics
quality standards and practices
sequence of operations
OHS practices, including hazard control measures
workplace practices
recording and reporting practices
Underpinning Demonstrates skills to:
Skills draw a basic sketch
take measurements
use patternmaking tools
Evidence Guide
1. Prepare 1.1 Materials and garment pieces for assembly are gathered
garment and checked for completeness and appropriateness
pieces 1.2 Fabric pieces and linings are pinned or sewn together as
required, and appropriately hung in readiness for assembly
1.3 First fitting is conducted with the client and necessary
changes made, as required
1.4 Material is handled appropriately based on its characteristics
2. Assemble 2.1 Pieces are sewn together to form the whole garment in
garment accordance with pattern specifications and OHS practices
2.2 Garment is pressed in accordance with requirements
2.3 Second fitting of garment is assessed with client
2.4 Modifications are determined in consultation with the client,
where necessary
3. Finish 3.1 Alterations are undertaken, where relevant
garment 3.2 Hand sewing is assessed and trims applied in accordance
with design requirements
3.3 Garment is finished to meet specifications and appropriate
labels attached
4. Conduct final 4.1 Final fitting is conducted to ensure client satisfaction and to
fitting and confirm correct sizing, look and wearer comfort
documentation 4.2 All relevant paperwork and documentation is prepared in
accordance with enterprise procedures
4.3 Documents are filed / stored or forwarded to appropriate
personnel in accordance with enterprise procedures
4.4 OHS practices are observed throughout the application of
this unit
Evidence Guide
Critical aspects of Demonstrates skills and knowledge to:
Competence prepare and assemble pieces for garment
conduct fittings
communicate effectively and interact with the client
communicate effectively with customers, etc.
apply workplace health and safety policies in work
operations
maintain accurate records
Underpinning Demonstrates knowledge of:
Knowledge and garment construction
Attitudes assembly methods
fabric properties, their characteristics and performance
safety and environmental aspects of relevant enterprise
activities
OHS practices, including hazard identification and control
measures
quality practices
workplace practices
recording and reporting practices
Underpinning Demonstrates skills to:
Skills perform alterations
hand and machine sew and apply trims
apply all the relevant safety practices when working in the
clothing industry
communicate effectively with individuals, work groups and
supervisors
read, interpret and follow information on work specifications, ,
Variable Range
Customer’s May include:
requirements style/design
size and color
type of fabrics
date to finish
OHS practices manual handling techniques
personal protective equipment
safe materials handling
ergonomic arrangement of workplaces
housekeeping
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Evidence Guide
Critical Aspects Demonstrates skills and knowledge to:
of Competence interpret work orders, specifications and instructions for
products and materials to be used
estimate quantities of materials required
determine the types and amount of labor required to complete
the work
estimate time required to complete the work
document and communicate work-related information
use calculators, computer programs and other aids in the
estimation and cost calculation processes
apply OHS practices in work operations
maintain accurate records
Underpinning Demonstrates knowledge of:
Knowledge and products and services offered by the dressmaker/tailor
Attitudes costing procedures
components of overheads costs
components of direct labor costs
workflow and production processes
basic mathematical processes and formulas
labor rates and approximate costs of products and materials
OHS practices including hazard control measures
quality standards and practices
workplace practices
recording and reporting practices
Underpinning Demonstrates skills to:
Skills locate and interpret technical information about products,
materials, equipment and operating procedures
identify customer requirements
calculate amounts and sizes of materials
apply hourly rates for labor and overheads
estimate production times
calculate total costs of products or services
maintain accurate records
clarify and check task-related information
carry out work according to OHS practices
Resources Access is required to real or appropriately simulated situations,
Implication including work areas, materials and equipment
Methods of Competence may be assessed through:
Assessment Observation/demonstration with Oral questioning
Written Test
Context of Competence may be assessed in the workplace or in a
Assessment simulated workplace setting
1. Gather specific 1.1 Potential retail clients/customers and sales opportunities are
retailing identified
information
1.2 Retail customers are segmented and their purchasing
behavior identified
1.3 Features and benefits of merchandize are identified
1.4 Target market needs and expectations in relation to the
merchandize are identified
1.5 Current merchandising practices and trends are analyzed
for relevance to fashion product.
1.6 Key factors on the success of retail business are
determined
2. Determine 2.1 Product mix, volumes and pricing are balanced to optimize
marketing mix sales and profit
2.2 Costs and benefits of using different distribution channels
and/or levels of customer are evaluated and the results
considered in determining the marketing mix
2.3 Customer needs and preferences are considered in
determining the marketing mix
2.4 Promotional activities are determined to suit the target
market
2.5 Marketing mix is determined according to market and
business needs
3. Develop and 3.1 Marketing cycle of the merchandize is identified
implement 3.2 Marketing plan is developed which details marketing
marketing plan strategies and promotional activities
3.3 Marketing plan is assessed for its effectiveness in meeting
marketing objectives, timing and budget requirements
3.4 Marketing plan is documented according to industry practice.
Variables Range
Problems May include but not limited to:
difficult customer service situations
equipment breakdown/technical failure
delays and time difficulties
competence
Workplace May include but is not limited to:
records staff records and regular performance reports
Evidence Guide
Critical Aspects Assessment must confirm appropriate knowledge and skills to:
of Competence ability to effectively monitor and respond to a range of common
operational and service issues in the workplace
understanding of the role of staff involved in workplace
monitoring
knowledge of quality assurance, principles of workflow planning,
delegation and problem solving
Underpinning Demonstrate knowledge of:
Knowledge and roles and responsibilities in monitoring work operations
Attitudes overview of leadership and management responsibilities
principles of work planning and principles of delegation
typical work organization methods appropriate to the sector
quality assurance principles and time management
problem solving and decision making processes
industrial and/or legislative issues which affect short term work
organization as appropriate to industry sector
Underpinning Demonstrate skills to:
Skills monitoring and improving workplace operations
planning and organizing workflow
maintaining workplace records
Resource Access is required to real or appropriately simulated work areas,
Implications materials and equipment
Methods of Competence may be assessed through:
Assessment Interview / Written Test
Observation / Demonstration with Oral Questioning
Context of Competence may be assessed in the workplace or in a simulated
Assessment workplace setting
Evidence Guide
Critical Aspects of Assessment requires evidence that the candidate:
Competence checked completed work continuously against organization
standard
identified and isolated faulty or poor product/output
checked service delivered against organization standards
identified and applied corrective actions on the causes of
identified faults or error
recorded basic information regarding quality performance
investigated causes of deviations of services against standard
recommended suitable preventive actions
Underpinning Demonstrates knowledge of:
Knowledge and relevant quality standards, policies and procedures
Attitudes characteristics of products/outputs
safety environment aspects of production processes
relevant evaluation techniques and quality checking procedures
workplace procedures and reporting procedures
Underpinning Demonstrates skills to:
Skills interpret work instructions, specifications and standards
appropriate to the required work or product
carry out relevant performance evaluation
maintain accurate work records in accordance with procedures
meet work specifications and requirements
communicate effectively within defined workplace procedures
1. Provide team 1.1. Work requirements are identified and presented to team
leadership members
1.2. Reasons for instructions and requirements are
communicated to team members
1.3. Team members’ queries and concerns are recognized,
discussed and dealt with
2. Assign 2.1. Duties and responsibilities are allocated having regard to the
responsibilities skills, knowledge and aptitude required to properly undertake
the assigned task and according to company policy
2.2. Duties are allocated having regard to individual preference,
domestic and personal considerations, whenever possible
3. Set 3.1. Performance expectations are established based on client
performance needs and according to assignment requirements
expectations 3.2. Performance expectations are based on individual team
for team members duties and area of responsibility
members
3.3. Performance expectations are discussed and disseminated
to individual team members
4. Supervised 4.1. Monitoring of performance takes place against defined
team performance criteria and/or assignment instructions and
performance corrective action taken if required
4.2. Team members are provided with feedback, positive support
and advice on strategies to overcome any deficiencies
4.3. Performance issues which cannot be rectified or addressed
within the team are referenced to appropriate personnel
according to employer policy
4.4. Team members are kept informed of any changes in the
priority allocated to assignments or tasks which might impact
on client/customer needs and satisfaction
4.5. Team operations are monitored to ensure that employer/
client needs and requirements are met
Variable Range
Evidence Guide
Critical Aspects of Demonstrates skills and knowledge to:
Competence Maintained or improved individuals and/or team performance
given a variety of possible scenario
Assessed and monitored team and individual performance
against set criteria
Represented concerns of a team and individual to next level of
management or appropriate specialist and to negotiate on their
behalf
Allocated duties and responsibilities, having regard to
individual’s knowledge, skills and aptitude and the needs of the
tasks to be performed
Set and communicated performance expectations for a range
of tasks and duties within the team and provided feedback to
team members
3. Identify and 3.1 Issues and problems are identified as they arise
communicate 3.2 Information regarding problems and issues are organized
issues arising coherently to ensure clear and effective communication
in the
workplace 3.3 Dialogue is initiated with appropriate staff/personnel
3.4 Communication problems and issues are raised as they
arise
Evidence Guide
Critical Aspects of Demonstrates skills and knowledge to:
Competence Dealt with a range of communication/information at one time
Made constructive contributions in workplace issues
Sought workplace issues effectively
Responded to workplace issues promptly
Presented information clearly and effectively written form
Used appropriate sources of information
Asked appropriate questions
Provided accurate information
Underpinning Demonstrates knowledge of:
Knowledge and Organization requirements for written and electronic
Attitudes communication methods
Effective verbal communication methods
Apparel/Garments Terminology
Underpinning Demonstrates skills to:
Skills Organize information
Understand and convey intended meaning
Participate in variety of workplace discussions
Comply with organization requirements for the use of written
and electronic communication methods
Resources The following resources must be provided: variety of information,
Implication communication tools, simulated workplace
Methods of Competence may be assessed through:
Assessment Interview
Observation/Demonstration
Context of Competence may be assessed in the workplace or in a simulated
Assessment workplace setting
Variable Range
Data required organization capability
includes: appropriate business structure
level of client service which can be provided
internal policies, procedures and practices
staff levels, capabilities and structure
market, market definition
market changes/market segmentation
market consolidation/fragmentation
revenue
level of commercial activity
expected revenue levels, short and long term
revenue growth rate
break even data
pricing policy
revenue assumptions
business environment
economic conditions
social factors
demographic factors
technological impacts
political/legislative/regulative impacts
Evidence Guide
Critical Aspects The candidate must be able to demonstrate:
of Competence ability to identify the key indicators of business performance
ability to identify the key market data for the business
knowledge of a wide range of available information sources
ability to acquire information not readily available within a
business
ability to analyze data and determine areas of improvement
ability to negotiate required improvements to ensure
implementation
ability to evaluate systems against practice requirements
and form recommendations and/or make recommendations
ability to assess the accuracy and relevance of information
Underpinning Demonstrates knowledge of:
Knowledge and data analysis
Attitudes communication skills
computer skills to manipulate data and present information
negotiation skills
problem solving
planning skills
marketing principles
ability to acquire and interpret relevant data
current product and marketing mix
use of market intelligence
development and implementation strategies of promotion and
growth plans
Underpinning data analysis and manipulation
Skills ability to acquire and interpret required data
current practice systems and structures
sources of relevant benchmarking data
methods of selecting relevant key benchmarking indicators
1. Develop and 1.1 Distribute and explain information about the enterprise's
maintain quality quality system to personnel
framework 1.2 Encourage personnel to participate in improvement
within work area processes and to assume responsibility and authority
1.3 Allocate responsibilities for quality within work area in
accordance with quality system
1.4 Provide coaching and mentoring to ensure that
personnel are able to meet their responsibilities and quality
requirements
2. Maintain quality 2.1 Identify required quality documentation, including records
documentation of improvement plans and initiatives
2.2 Prepare and maintain quality documentation and keep
accurate data records
2.3 Maintain document control system for work area
2.4 Contribute to the development and revision of quality
manuals and work instructions for the work area
2.5 Develop and implement inspection and test plans for
quality controlled products
3. Facilitate the 3.1 Ensure all required procedures are accessible by relevant
application of personnel
standardized 3.2 Assist personnel to access relevant procedures, as
procedures required
3.3 Facilitate the resolution of conflicts arising from job
3.4 Facilitate the completion of required work in accordance
with standard procedures and practices
Variable Range
Coaching and May refer to:
mentoring providing assistance with problem-solving
providing feedback, support and encouragement
teaching another member of the team, usually focusing on a
specific work task or skill
Continuous May include:
improvement cyclical audits and reviews of workplace, team and individual
processes may performance
include: evaluations and monitoring of effectiveness
implementation of quality systems, such as International
Standardization for Organization (ISO)
modifications and improvements to systems, processes,
services and products
policies and procedures which allow the organization to
systematically review and improve the quality of its products,
services and procedures
seeking and considering feedback from a range of
stakeholders
Kaizen
Enterprise-specific improvement systems
Technology May include:
computerized systems and software such as databases,
project management and word processing
telecommunications devices
any other technology used to carry out work roles and
responsibilities
Customer service May be:
internal or external
to existing, new or potential clients
Key process Key process indicators may include:
indicators statistical process control data/charts
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orders
lost time, injury and other OHS records
equipment reliability charts, etc.
Continuous May include:
improvement tools statistics
cause and effect diagrams
fishbone diagram
Pareto diagrams
run charts
X bar R charts
PDCA
Sigma techniques
balanced scorecards
benchmarking
performance measurement
upstream and downstream customers
internal and external customers immediate and/or final
Evidence Guide
Critical Aspects of Evidence of the following is essential:
Competence taking active steps to implement, monitor and adjust plans,
processes and procedures to improve performance
supporting others to implement the continuous improvement
system/processes, and to identify and report opportunities
for further improvement
knowledge of principles and techniques associated with
continuous improvement systems and processes
assist others to follow standard procedures and practices
assist others make improvement suggestions
standardize and sustain improvements
Assessors should ensure that candidates can:
implement and monitor defined quality system
requirements and initiate continuous improvements within
the work area
apply effective problem identification and problem solving
techniques
strengthen customer service through a focus on continuous
improvement
implement, monitor and evaluate quality systems in the work
area
initiate quality processes to enhance the quality of
performance of individuals and teams in the work area
gain commitment of individuals/teams to quality principles
and practices
industry, academe and government agencies who donated their time and expertise to
We would like also to express our appreciation to the Experts of Federal Micro Small
Engineering Capacity Building Program (eCBP) who made the development of this
This occupational standard was developed on March 2011 at Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.