Difference Between Discrete and Process Manufacturing

Manufacturing is the art of processing raw materials to make utility-oriented products for the customers. These products can be classified into many categories and industries. The manufacturing method in various industries depends upon the finished good. Therefore, before understanding the difference between discrete and process manufacturing, we need to understand the concept itself. So let us first have a look at the definitions of the discrete and process manufacturing.

What is discrete manufacturing?

The method of manufacturing complex products in relatively low volumes with the help individually counted units which can be counted numerically, is called discrete manufacturing. Discrete manufacturing involves assembling things, where each component of the product can be distinctly identified and the product can be assembled and disassembled. Examples of discrete manufacturing industries are automobile, electronic, apparels, machines & devices etc. The methodology uses Bills of Materials (BOMs) and assembles components along an assembly line. In view of that, it includes make-to-stock, make-to-order, and assemble to order production.

What is process manufacturing?

To mix, process and combine raw materials to manufacture products in bulk quantities using a fixed formula or recipe is called process manufacturing. This leads to chemical and or thermal conversions which means that goods are generally produced in the forms of liquid, solid, gel, powder etc. and are measured in kilograms, tons, liters, gallons and so on. In case of process manufacturing, the raw materials can’t be taken out from the finished products once manufacturing is complete. Industries that use process manufacturing include foods & beverages, pharmaceutical, paints & coatings, chemicals, cosmetics, personal care etc.

 

How discrete manufacturing is different from process manufacturing?

 

Discrete Manufacturing	Process Manufacturing
Products are comprised of components that can be touched, and counted.	Products are manufactured using formulas or recipes
Parts can be broken down & disposed off or recycled after production	Products cannot be broken down back into raw materials
Uses Bills-of-Material	Uses formulas or recipes
Assembles in a linear or routing way	Blends in a batch
Involves joining, attaching, fixing, assembling etc.	Involves grinding, boiling, mixing, churning, etc.
Doesn’t involves change of volume or density	Volume, density, mass, physical properties all get changed here

Taking illustrations for better understanding the difference between the two

Manufacturing a Car, bicycle, Taps, Mobile Phones, etc, is discrete, whereas producing Tomato Ketchup, Shampoos, Paints, Lubricants, Juices, etc., is process manufacturing.

Some process & discrete manufacturing vertical markets

Both discrete and process manufacturing are as different as cheese and chalk. Their processes, requirements, regulatory compliances, terminologies, etc, all differ from each other drastically. Using an ERP solution for process manufacturing that is basically built for Discrete is thus not a good idea. Manufacturers should look for ERP software that is built specifically for their manufacturing type and works the way they work. This will not only reduce the implementation time, but cost also as the need for customization will significantly drop. BatchMaster Software Pvt. Ltd., is one company that offers unique ERP solutions for both these manufacturing types. These ERP software applications include all necessary tools essential for respective manufactures to compete successfully in the marketplace and to maximize profits. They are: Unique Processes, hence Unique Solution

BatchMaster ERP

BatchMaster ERP is an IT solution that offers formula/recipe based manufacturers specific functionalities and handles all critical processes like: product development, procurement, production, quality, packaging, costing, and compliance, sales, accounting, warehousing, etc. Designed with 30 years of process manufacturing experience, it helps manufacturers streamline their operations, reduce wastage, bring down costs, increase profits, improve compliance and manage safety to keep their customers happy and satisfied. For more information write to us at sales@batchmaster.com

OptiPro ERP

OptiPro ERP with SAP Business One is an affordable and reliable ERP solution for small to mid-sized discrete manufacturers and distributors. It is developed by manufacturers for manufacturers, and that includes financial management, supply chain management, CRM, and industry-specific solutions in one seamless system. OptiPro ERP gives you the foundation to scale and compete, without the complexity and cost. Visit www.optiproerp.com for more details.