3 Ways to Supply Assembly Items

Efficient assembly management is crucial for businesses that manufacture products by combining multiple components. Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central offers a robust Assembly Management module designed to streamline production workflows. With tools to create assembly orders, track inventory, and manage production seamlessly, Business Central supports both assemble-to-order and assemble-to-stock processes. These flexible options help businesses meet customer demands while optimizing production. Here, we’ll explore three ways to supply your assembly items in Business Central.

1. Assemble to Order

The assemble-to-order process is perfect for businesses prioritizing customization and cost efficiency. This method assembles items specifically for customer sales orders, reducing the need for excess inventory. Key benefits include:

• Customization: Items are tailored to customer specifications.
• Real-Time Insights: Track component availability, reserve items automatically, and calculate costs and prices in real-time.
• Seamless Integration: Aligns with warehouse operations to streamline assembly and shipping.

By using assemble-to-order, businesses can maintain lean inventory levels while delivering personalized products efficiently.

2. Assemble to Stock

For companies that produce standard, pre-assembled items, the assemble-to-stock process is ideal. This approach involves manufacturing goods in advance and keeping them in inventory for immediate delivery. Benefits include:

• Inventory Readiness: Finished goods are stored and ready for quick order fulfillment.
• Efficient Production: Best suited for commonly sold items like kits, bundles, or packaged products that don’t require customization.
• Streamlined Fulfillment: Items are treated like other inventory, simplifying the pick, pack, and ship process.

Assemble-to-stock is especially useful for businesses with high-demand, standardized products that require minimal lead time.

3. Combination Scenarios

Business Central also supports combination scenarios, which blend aspects of assemble-to-order and assemble-to-stock. This hybrid approach allows businesses to:

• Mix Fulfillment Strategies: Ship items partially from inventory while assembling the remainder to order.
• Enhance Flexibility: Adapt to varying customer needs and optimize production timelines.
• Reduce Lead Times: Balance efficiency and customization by leveraging existing inventory while assembling specific components as needed.

These scenarios are ideal for businesses with complex fulfillment requirements, enabling a responsive and efficient supply chain.

Next Steps

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central empowers businesses to manage assembly processes effectively, track inventory, and optimize resources. Whether you’re focused on customized orders, maintaining stock for quick delivery, or a combination of both, Business Central provides the tools to streamline production and enhance customer satisfaction.

As a proud Microsoft partner, Logan Consulting is here to help you make the most of Business Central’s assembly management features. Contact us today to speak with an expert and elevate your ERP strategy.