Final answer:
A bill of materials (BOM) is a comprehensive list of materials required to manufacture a product. It is used in manufacturing, inventory management, and purchasing.
Step-by-step explanation:
A bill of materials (BOM) is a comprehensive list of raw materials, components, and subassemblies required to manufacture a product. It is used in a variety of business functions, including:
- Manufacturing: A BOM provides instructions for assembling a product, specifying the quantity and type of each component.
- Inventory Management: BOMs help in tracking the availability and usage of materials, aiding in efficient inventory control.
- Purchasing: BOMs guide procurement by listing the components needed, facilitating accurate ordering and timely delivery.