BOM Codes
Sometimes, a single product structure or formula can produce more than one kind of product.
Example: A company uses the same formula for a beverage or a cheese, but depending on how it is processed and aged, different products result. In this case, it does not make sense to define the formula with respect to one specific product.
In another case, one product can be produced with several different product structures or formulas.
Example: A computer workstation is assembled in different countries around the world. Several different product structures use slightly different components produced by different manufacturers. No matter which product structure is used, the end product is functionally equivalent. Depending on where the product is manufactured, one structure may be more favorable as a result of cost differences due to price and/or tax considerations.
In both cases, enter product structures and formulas by using a product structure/formula—or bill of material (BOM)—code as the parent item instead of an item number. Use two programs to set up BOM codes:
• Product Structure Code Maintenance (13.1)
• Formula Code Maintenance (15.1)
Note: The system automatically creates BOM codes for parent items that are defined in the item master when adding product structures and formulas.
BOM codes and item numbers are entirely independent. You can use the same product structure or formula for multiple items, and any one of several product structures or formulas to make the same item.
When an item number and its BOM code are the same, they are automatically linked. If an item’s BOM code is blank, the item number is used as the BOM code. When they are different, you can change the BOM code in Item Planning Maintenance (1.4.7) or Item-Site Planning Maintenance (1.4.17).