Component Formula Tools Overview

Manufacture and sell product with variable dimensions.

In this article

Getting Started | Features | Sample Reports | Related Content

Getting Started

Component Formula Tool (also labeled Parts Calculate) adds variable calculations to component lists rather than the standard fixed component list or bill of materials. This module is an extension of the Components Module of EBMS.  Review the Components and Accessories Overview for more details on components. The inventory formula tool is a swiss-army knife option that allows nearly any value within the component list to be modified using a formula. The information from other components can be referenced within the formula. This option is used when variable dimensions are required to calculate a materials list or a component list or bill of materials within a manufacturing batch.  

The Component Formula Tool gives the user the option to create an inventory item with multiple dimensions, reducing the requirement to create a unique inventory ID for each possible dimension. This option is commonly used for custom inventory items with custom dimensions or options. The Component Formula Tool should not be used if each inventory item requires unique components and dimensions.  

This option adds additional data entry columns to the proposal and sales order dialogs that can be used by the component formulas. Additional data entry columns include multiple dimensions (both decimal and fraction), formula details, comments, and waste factor values. Formula Tools can store and calculate these values, dynamically translate between decimals and fractions, and replace keywords on the component list description. Component Formula Tools is a valuable add-on if it's possible to use an Excel formula to calculate a component value.

The Component Formula option can be used to generate customized bill of materials for items with variable dimensions such as replacement windows, custom mill work, and custom doors. Combine this feature with the inventory management, quotes and proposals, and the materials lists within EBMS to create a powerful way to generate a list of materials for specific products.

This option can also be used to sell variable length products such as metal panels used for roofing or siding. The component Formula option can be used to record the custom length of individual invoice or quote lines and general pricing based on these custom dimensions.

The Component Formula can also be used to price, inventory, and sell other items such as custom buildings with variable dimensions. Custom storage sheds, pole buildings, or other simple building packages can be sold and calculated using this option. Multiple inventory items should be created within the EBMS product catalog for standard buildings.

The Component Formula feature is a very flexible tool that can be used to solve a variety of complex needs. Contact your EBMS solutions consultant to determine the proper implementation steps for your situation.

Complete the following steps to use the component formula feature:

1. Setup the formulas for individual components within an item or setup stored formulas: review Formula Setup.

2. Configure Inventory settings for the finished good item: review Inventory Settings

Review Entering Multiple Dimensions Within a Sales Order or Quote for data entry instructions.

Common use cases

Manufacture Product with Multiple Dimensions