Not every organization needs to track an installed base. For example, a repair center that accepts products manufactured by many different companies may not need to keep track of installed base information. The questions on this slide will help you determine if you need to implement an installed base.

The installed base is normally used only with lot or serial number controlled items, because these support unique item identifications. If you provide warranties, service only registered products, perform regularly scheduled maintenance, or face the possibility of a product recall, you will want keep track of the installed base.