Shifting from Engineer to Order Processes

This white paper discusses the transition from Engineer to Order (ETO) processes to Configure to Order (CTO) manufacturing. It outlines the challenges faced by manufacturers using ETO, such as long lead times and complexities in production, and emphasizes the need for modular product structures. The document details the differences between ETO and CTO, highlighting how CTO can streamline production by utilizing predefined modular components. It presents a structured approach to identifying modular structures within existing product lines, including analyzing past orders and customer specifications. The paper also outlines key principles for product restructuring, focusing on the importance of a robust Bill of Materials (BOM) and the need for standardization across product offerings. By adopting these strategies, manufacturers can enhance efficiency, reduce lead times, and improve collaboration across sales and engineering teams, ultimately leading to more effective order fulfillment.