Solution
Unlocking production planning efficiency: Aligning eBOM and mBOM
Efficient production planning is the cornerstone of manufacturing success. At PDM Technology, we understand the challenges manufacturers face when aligning the Engineering Bill of Materials (eBOM) with the Manufacturing Bill of Materials (mBOM). In our latest whitepaper, we explore how this alignment can streamline workflows, reduce errors, and enhance operational efficiency. Here’s an overview of how our Bluestar PLM solution can transform your eBOM-to-mBOM process.
Published: 11. April 2025
Understanding eBOM and mBOM
It is essential for engineers and manufacturers to understand the difference between eBOM and mBOM:
Engineering Bill of Materials (eBOM): Created during the product design phase, the eBOM represents the conceptual structure of a product. It focuses on engineering aspects, such as parts and assemblies, without considering manufacturing specifics. Typically managed in Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems, eBOMs originate from tools like CAD software.
Manufacturing Bill of Materials (mBOM): mBOM (Manufacturing Bill of Materials): The mBOM incorporates manufacturing details necessary for production planning, including raw materials, assembly sequences, and packaging requirements. It is managed in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems to ensure manufacturing processes are optimized.
| Category | eBOM | mBOM |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Defining product design and specifications | Specifying parts and components for manufacturing process |
| Focus | Product design and functional aspects | Manufacturing process and efficiency |
| Timeline | Created during initial design phase | Created after eBOM development |
| Concerned teams | Engineers, designers, R&D teams | Manufacturing and production teams |
| Use cases | Used for design validation, prototyping and product development | Used for product planning and resource allocation |
| Documentation | Includes drawings, concept designs and specifications | Includes detailed product instructions and bill of resources |
Challenges aligning eBOM and mBOM
Challenges in aligning eBOM and mBOM can significantly disrupt workflows, as the transition from eBOM to mBOM often involves obstacles that hinder efficiency. One major challenge is the use of separate IT systems: traditionally, eBOMs are stored in PLM systems, while mBOMs reside in ERP systems. This separation creates inefficiencies during manual data transfers.
Additionally, there is a high risk of errors during these manual processes, leading to inaccuracies such as incorrect quantities or mislabeled parts. Another challenge lies in managing dynamic updates, as frequent changes to eBOMs necessitate careful updates to mBOMs, which increases the risk of errors without the right tools.
The consequences of inaccurate mBOMs can be substantial, leading to flawed material requirements planning, delayed production schedules, increased inventory costs due to overstocking, and reduced operational efficiency. These challenges underline the importance of implementing a robust system to ensure seamless data translation between eBOM and mBOM.
Benefits of using Bluestar PLM
Using Bluestar PLM to align your eBOM and mBOM processes offers a range of significant benefits. One of the most notable advantages is improved operational efficiency through automated workflows, which minimize manual interventions and streamline processes.
Additionally, Bluestar PLM reduces the risk of errors during BOM conversion, ensuring accuracy and consistency throughout the product lifecycle. Another key benefit is streamlined product variant management, making it easier to handle complex configurations.
The Bluestar Product Configurator further accelerates the creation of new product variants, allowing for quicker adaptation to market demands. By effectively bridging the gap between engineering and manufacturing teams, Bluestar PLM supports accurate production planning that aligns with your organizational goals.
Why choose Bluestar PLM?
At PDM Technology ApS, we designed Bluestar PLM to address real-world challenges faced by manufacturers like you. Our solution simplifies complex processes, reduces errors, and fosters collaboration between engineering and manufacturing teams—all within a single ERP system.
Conclusion
Aligning eBOM with mBOM is no longer optional—it’s a necessity for manufacturers aiming for operational excellence. With Bluestar PLM embedded in D365 SCM, we provide a comprehensive solution that automates this alignment process and enhances overall efficiency.
If you’re ready to unlock your full production planning potential, contact us today to learn how Bluestar PLM can transform your business. Get in touch with our team for more information!
