Introduction
The Item Alternative feature in Empress is a handy tool that allows you to seamlessly substitute items during the manufacturing process. This is especially beneficial when your original raw material, specified in the Bill of Materials (BOM), is unavailable.
Accessibility and Activation
To start using this feature, you need to activate the “Allow Alternative Item” option in your item settings. Here’s how you can find this option:
- Navigate to Home.
- Click on Stock.
- Select Items and Pricing.
- Choose Item Alternative.
Once you’re in the Item master dashboard, you can access the Item Alternative list by clicking the plus sign next to ‘Item Alternative.’ You also have the option to enable two-way replacement between an item and its alternative if they can substitute each other.
Prerequisites
Make sure you have created an Item before you begin creating and using an Item Alternative.
Application in Work Orders
By configuring the ‘Allow Alternative Item’ setting in the BOM/Work Order, you can utilize alternative items in the manufacturing process.
Incorporating Item Alternative in the BOM
To use an alternative item in the Stock Entry, you need to activate ‘Allow Alternative Item’ in a BOM. You can apply this process to a Work Order as well.
Implementing Item Alternative in the Work Order
You have the flexibility to enable or disable the ‘Allow Alternative Item’ option for each Work Order. After checking the ‘Allow Alternative Item’ box, you’ll notice an ‘Alternate Item’ button. Click on this button to set the Item Alternative in the Work Order.
Please note, if the ‘Allow Alternative Item’ checkbox in the Item table is not activated, you cannot set an Alternate Item for this Item.
Item Alternative in Subcontracting
In scenarios involving subcontracting, you need to transfer raw materials to the subcontracted supplier to receive the finished goods. If the raw material is unavailable, you have the option to transfer the alternate item of the subcontracted raw material to the supplier using the Stock Entry.
Once you’ve done this, the alternative item will be displayed when you create a Purchase Receipt from the Work Order.
Conclusion
The Item Alternative feature significantly enhances your business processes by providing flexibility in your manufacturing process. It allows you to substitute items when the original ones are unavailable, ensuring continuity in your operations. For more details and support, feel free to explore our non-technical resources or reach out to our support team.