Dr. Tatjana Spahiu: digital technologies are reshaping the footwear industry

As digital tools become increasingly prevalent in the footwear industry, there is a need to understand how these technologies impact the development of products, sustainability strategies and workforce training. 

In this week’s interview, we feature Prof. Assoc. Dr. Tatjana Spahiu, an Associate Professor at the Polytechnic University of Tirana, whose research focuses on the application of digital technologies in the production processes of the fashion and footwear industries.

“The digital transformation is reshaping the way a wide range of products are designed and produced nowadays”, Dr. Spahiu shares. Technologies such as computer-aided design, 3D modelling, simulation and virtual prototyping are now central to the product development process. Additive manufacturing, artificial intelligence and machine learning are also becoming increasingly vital, enabling companies to “simulate virtual replicas or new products, even before creating them”, the Professor notes.

Sustainability remains a significant priority in the footwear and fashion industries. “The digital transformation of companies, or even called a smart revolution, is a boost to develop and support sustainable production in the fashion and footwear industry”, Dr. Spahiu explains. Seasonal trends are commonly observed in the clothing and footwear industries, leading to a significant environmental impact. According to the Professor, “sustainable production is a strategic drive for footwear companies to reduce waste and offer more sustainable products”.

The footwear design phase is a critical step, as product design “contributes 80% of sustainable production, or 80% of the product’s lifetime emissions”. Therefore, careful consideration must be given to include sustainability aspects in the design phase. Digital tools, such as 3D modelling and simulation, support the early stages of sustainable product development, while additive manufacturing reduces waste, eliminates multiple production steps and facilitates personalisation. Designing for longevity and recyclability is also gaining ground, with modular concepts and material-conscious planning becoming more common. “These technologies are valuable to create complex geometries through topological optimisation, not possible with traditional manufacturing”, the Professor highlights.

As technology reshapes production, education and skills development play a crucial role in ensuring industry professionals remain competitive. “Moreover, digital transition is important for companies to continue and be competitive in the globalised market”, Dr. Spahiu emphasises. Lifelong learning and continuous training are essential for designers and engineers to stay up to date. Partnerships between universities and companies are particularly valuable, providing a platform for applied learning, skill refinement and the integration of emerging technologies in both educational and industrial contexts.

Many young people, especially women, are drawn to design, but understanding the entire production process is equally critical. According to the Professor, “creating footwear products is a job that requires good knowledge of footwear products. It is not only about designing, but it is also important the assembling part, which requires a high number of machines and equipment to transform the digital product into a wearable one”. 

Universities have begun involving students in industry projects, with a focus on both functionality and sustainability. There, “students are part of product development at the footwear companies in collaboration with pattern makers and technical staff”. Participation in international competitions and collaborations with manufacturers enables students to see their ideas come to life, thereby bridging the gap between theory and practice.

Looking to the future, digital technologies are expected to play an even greater role in footwear development. Virtual prototyping using digital tools is set to reduce waste and lead times, while additive manufacturing offers possibilities for made-to-measure designs and complex geometries.

Advanced technologies, such as smart materials, sensors and the Internet of Things, are opening new frontiers in functional footwear. These tools can monitor user data, improve comfort and even support health-related applications. Meanwhile, “the role of artificial intelligence and machine learning to predict design trends or offer personalised recommendations as personal stylists is the new trend in the footwear industry”, reinforcing the industry's shift towards digital personalisation.

Robotics and automation will further shape how shoes are made, reducing manual labour and enhancing quality control. “All these technologies together with sustainable materials will have a high impact on reducing the environmental footprint of footwear products”, Dr. Spahiu notes. Together, digital technologies mark a transition toward a more intelligent, responsible and consumer-centred future for the industry.