Intelligent VS. Non-Intelligent Part Numbers: Which Are Better In Manufacturing?

In the world of manufacturing, there are different methods by which parts are managed. And, in the industry, there is an ongoing debate about which of those methods are best. There are two, in particular, that we’re referring to: intelligent part numbers and non-intelligent part numbers. By their very names, you’d think there was no debate at all.

When has being “non-intelligent” ever been better
than being “intelligent”, right? Well, as you may have guessed, there is more
to these methods than their names. So, let’s break down what each of them
really means.

What
is intelligent part numbering?

There are numerous companies within the manufacturing
realm that swear by the intelligent part numbering method. Intelligent part
numbering is a process by which descriptive details about the characteristics
of each part are provided. The overall objective of providing such clear
information is to avoid any confusion about the parts and to save time.

Professionals who vouch for the intelligent part numbering method highlight how easy and efficient it makes searching for parts. By clearly labelling a cable assembly “CAB”, for example, it makes the part easy to locate and sort among the many others that may be necessary on a production line.

The “intelligent” method also helps to specify the
groups to which every part belongs. Locating parts that are in the wrong groups
is made easy. This allows for efficient processing.

Opponents of intelligent part numbering, on the
other hand, note the challenges associated with having to train workers on how
to appropriately define and label each part. Differentiating the names of each
part can be confusing when they start to share some of the same
characteristics. A misnamed part can wreak havoc on a product’s design if it is
mistakenly used.

What
is non-intelligent part numbering?

Non-intelligent part numbering is a process by which
no descriptive details about each part is provided, but instead, a numbering
system is used to differentiate each part. Instead of any descriptions, a list
of serial numbers is created and assigned to each separate part. Proponents for
the non-intelligent part number method believe that much less training is
required in order for workers to learn it.

After all, you don’t need to know anything about the
part in order to assign it a number. However, those who prefer the intelligent
part numbering method contend that it’s much harder to locate parts based on
random serial numbers. When perusing through a spreadsheet, for example, it’s
difficult to tell one part from the other without any descriptions or names.

Opponents also cite having no frame of reference
when trying to select a part. Again, numbers don’t provide descriptions, so
being confident that the right part has been chosen doesn’t come easy.

Choosing the right method all depends on your
business.

Manufacturing companies that are large in size often
have multiple product lines. Training large staffs can be difficult, so such
organizations often opt for the non-intelligent part numbering method to make
things easier. It’s important to take into account the size of your company and
its overall objectives. Each part numbering method is designed to meet
different requirements and specifications. Which one would work best for you?

Which one works best for Flux Connectivity? Find out by giving us a call at 1-800-557-FLUX or emailing us at connect@fluxconnectivity.com.