A Gamechanger for CTO Manufacturing: ConfigurePriceQuote365

We’re excited to introduce ConfigurePriceQuote365.com, a new division of Sabre Limited that aims to make life easier for those dealing with Configure to Order (CTO) manufacturing workflows. Our specialty is delivering user-friendly product configurators and CPQ (Configure, Price, Quote) solutions that seamlessly integrate with Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central.

If you’ve ever found yourself overwhelmed by customizing product orders or juggling complex pricing, you’re not alone. For manufacturers relying on Business Central to handle Configure to Order processes, these challenges come up every single day. That’s exactly why we launched ConfigurePriceQuote365.com—to help you cut through the confusion and streamline your operations.

To explore more about costs and budgeting, check out Business Central Pricing and dive into Dynamics 365 Cost insights.

What is CTO Manufacturing?

Configure-to-Order (CTO) is a manufacturing and sales approach that allows customers to select from a range of predefined product features, creating a uniquely tailored item without building it entirely from scratch.

In this model, the CPQ system plays a critical role by guiding users through the configuration process, ensuring accurate pricing, and facilitating a seamless transition from order placement to production.

The Role of CPQ Software in the CTO Process

CPQ software drives the entire configuration phase of a CTO workflow. It functions as the crucial link between customers and manufacturers by presenting product data, calculating prices, and generating bills of materials (BOMs).

Let’s look at two common scenarios demonstrating how CPQ supports the CTO process:

Scenario 1: Self-Service Portal

1. Customer Configuration: A customer uses an online configurator to customize a product.
2. Verification & Pricing: The configurator sends the details to CPQ, which checks that all chosen options are valid and calculates the final cost.
3. Order Placement: The customer places an order.
4. BOM Creation: CPQ automatically generates a BOM listing all components necessary for production.
5. ERP Integration: The BOM is transferred to the manufacturer’s ERP system for inventory checks and production management.
6. Production & Delivery: The manufacturer builds the product based on the BOM, ships it, and updates the customer on delivery status.

Scenario 2: Sales Rep Interaction

1. Order Initiation: A sales rep receives a request or purchase order and records the details.
2. Configuration & Pricing: They enter the product configuration into CPQ, which validates each option and calculates total cost.
3. Quote Issuance: A quote is prepared and sent to the customer.
4. Quote Approval: The customer approves the quote, which becomes an official purchase order or invoice.
5. BOM Generation: CPQ creates a BOM and sends it to the ERP system.
6. Production & Delivery: The manufacturer produces the configured product, ships it, and updates the customer about delivery.

No matter the approach—whether a self-service portal or a sales rep-led order—CPQ software remains the essential bridge connecting a customer’s order to the manufacturer’s production process.

CTO Manufacturing Examples

Configure-to-order principles apply just as well in the industrial and heavy machinery sectors, where customers often need specific capacities, attachments, or performance features.

Here are a few examples of how CTO is used in industrial equipment:

1. Forklifts:

• Load Capacity & Lift Height: Buyers choose models with varying weight capacities and lift heights to accommodate different warehouse or yard requirements.
• Power Source: Options may include electric, propane, or diesel forklifts, each suited to particular indoor or outdoor conditions.
• Attachments & Safety Features: Specialized clamps, forks, and safety systems (e.g., sensors, cages) can be configured to match specific handling needs.

2. Tractors:

• Engine Horsepower & Fuel Type: Customers select the power and fuel option (diesel, biodiesel, etc.) best suited for their farming or landscaping tasks.
• Cab & Controls: Options range from open station designs to fully enclosed, air-conditioned cabs with advanced control panels.
• Attachments: Front loaders, backhoes, mowing decks, and various other implements can be added for versatility and efficiency.

3. Industrial Equipment & Machinery:

• Production Capacity: Manufacturers can offer configurable throughput rates, machine speeds, or capacity ranges.
• Materials & Finishes: Customers may select from different metal alloys or surface coatings for corrosion resistance, food-grade handling, or heavy-duty use.
• Automation & Control Systems: Customized software, sensors, and automation modules allow for varying levels of operational complexity and integration.

4. Construction Equipment (e.g., Excavators, Bulldozers):

• Engine Tier & Power Output: Clients can pick engine sizes and emissions control levels to meet both performance and environmental standards.
• Attachment Options: Buckets, augers, grapples, and other tools adapt the equipment to specialized tasks.
• Cabin Features: Comfort-oriented enhancements such as air conditioning, ergonomic seating, and advanced digital controls can be configured to operator preferences.

Through CTO strategies, each piece of industrial machinery can be precisely tailored to the unique requirements of its end user, whether in manufacturing, agriculture, construction, or other demanding environments.

A Powerful Boost for Configure to Order Manufacturing with CPQ365

At ConfigurePriceQuote365.com, we do more than just provide tools. Our mission is to help manufacturers find and implement the right product configurators, customized to their unique processes—all while ensuring a smooth connection to Business Central.

And if you’re not on Business Central? No worries. We offer CPQ selection services and configurator engineering expertise, making us a go-to resource for manufacturers in any industry—including those looking for ERP for small manufacturing company.

Our Two Key Services:

1. Business Central + CPQ Implementation

If you already use Business Central, we’ll set you up with a CPQ solution that perfectly aligns with your Configure to Order workflows. Our team focuses on making sure your new tools fit seamlessly into your existing operations, so you can start seeing the benefits right away.

2. Selection & Engineering for Non-BC Customers

Even if you’re not running on Business Central, you can still tap into the power of CPQ. We provide independent CPQ selection guidance and configurator engineering services that rival anything designed specifically for Business Central—so you get the right solution for your needs.

What You Can Expect from CPQ365

At CPQ365, our main priority is to help configure-to-order manufacturers find the perfect configurator to meet their specific needs. When you work with us, here’s what you’ll get from any of our recommended product configurators:

1. Smooth ERP Integration

We make sure every configurator we offer meshes seamlessly with your existing ERP system. That way, you can spend less time worrying about data compatibility and more time focusing on what you do best—manufacturing.

2. Customization for Your Unique Requirements

Every manufacturer operates differently, with its own set of rules, workflows, and pricing models. Our team will pinpoint a solution that matches your exact specifications, whether your needs are straightforward or highly complex.

3. Accurate Pricing, Configuration, and Quotes

In configure-to-order workflows, precision is everything. The solutions we propose handle pricing and quoting automatically, so you can rest assured that every quote is right on target.

4. Expert Help and Ongoing Support

We’re not just a software vendor—we’re a partner. Our experts guide you through the entire selection and implementation process to ensure you get the most out of your new configurator.

Beyond offering powerful software, our configurator engineering services are designed to help you build a robust, rules-based configuration system tailored to your product logic. The result? Your team can operate at peak efficiency, and your customers get exactly the product they need—every time.

Want to Learn More?

Visit ConfigurePriceQuote365.com to explore our solutions and learn how they can transform your business. From scheduling a demo to connecting with our team, we are here to help you get started on the path to success. Let us show you how CPQ365 can empower your business to reach new heights.

If you have any questions, book a free consultation with one of our experts today.