NetSuite Blog - Nov 10, 2024 - Efficient Manufacturing Without MRP: Leverage the New Available to Build SuiteApp
Unlock Production Potential: The Available to Build SuiteApp Empowers Manufacturers Without MRP
For manufacturers navigating the complexities of production without a full Material Requirements Planning (MRP) system, managing inventory and fulfilling orders efficiently can be a significant challenge. Often, the crucial question arises: "How many of this assembly can we actually build with what we have on hand?" Now, a new NetSuite SuiteApp, Available to Build, provides a powerful solution, offering real-time visibility and streamlined processes for manufacturers relying on NetSuite for production.
Bridging the Gap: Real-Time Build Visibility
This innovative SuiteApp directly addresses the core need for accurate Available to Build (ATB) calculations. By seamlessly integrating with NetSuite's Item360, it empowers users to instantly determine how many assemblies and kits can be produced based on current inventory levels. This crucial insight allows for informed decision-making, minimizing delays and maximizing production efficiency.
Important Note: Advanced Bill of Materials Impact
It's critical to understand how the "Available to Build" SuiteApp functions when the Advanced Bill of Materials feature is disabled in NetSuite.
Simplified Assembly Calculations: Without Advanced BOM, the SuiteApp calculates the ATB for assembly items solely based on the on-hand quantity of the assembly itself. Sublevel items (components within the assembly) are not considered.
Feature Limitations:
The Item 360 Manufacturing page will not display the Available to Build portlet for assemblies.
The "Calculate Available to Build" option will not be available on the Sales Order page for assembly items.
Kit Item Functionality: Crucially, the Advanced Bill of Materials feature is not required for calculating the ATB of kit items. The SuiteApp calculates kit ATB based on the item master component list, regardless of the Advanced BOM setting.
Sales Order Line Level ATB
Key Benefits for Non-MRP Manufacturers:
Enhanced Sales Order Accuracy: Sales order entry operators can initiate ATB calculations directly at the sales order line level. This real-time visibility prevents overpromising and ensures accurate order fulfillment, leading to improved customer satisfaction.
Streamlined Production Management: Production and inventory managers gain instant access to ATB values through Item360 report portlets. This enables proactive monitoring of inventory and production capabilities, facilitating efficient resource allocation and minimizing bottlenecks.
Informed Decision-Making: By providing a clear picture of available build capacity, the SuiteApp empowers manufacturers to make informed decisions regarding production schedules, material procurement, and sales commitments.
Simplified Inventory Management: The SuiteApp helps manufacturers optimize inventory levels by providing accurate and up-to-date information on available components and finished goods.
Why This Matters for Non-MRP Manufacturers:
Manufacturers not using MRP often rely on manual processes and spreadsheets to manage inventory and production. This can lead to inaccuracies, delays, and inefficiencies. The "Available to Build" SuiteApp automates critical calculations, providing a centralized and reliable source of information. This automation is a huge step in closing the gap between not using MRP and still maintaining highly efficient production.
Embrace Efficiency, Minimize Delays
The Available to Build SuiteApp is a game-changer for manufacturers seeking to optimize production processes without the complexity of a full MRP system. By providing real-time visibility into available build capacity and simplifying inventory management, this solution empowers manufacturers to streamline operations, minimize delays, and ultimately drive greater profitability.
Item 360 Manufacturing ATB