Forging, Brewing, and Assembling: Mixed Mode Manufacturing at the Waterdeep Trading Company

In the heart of the Sword Coast, nestled within the bustling streets of Waterdeep, the Waterdeep Trading Company operates more than just a retail storefront. Beneath its merchant façade lies a complex web of manufacturing operations—each tailored to suit the diversity of products demanded by adventurers, nobles, and guilds alike. To meet this demand, the company has embraced Mixed Mode Manufacturing within Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management, blending Discrete, Process, and Lean production models into a seamless hybrid.

Let’s delve into how these modes function and how the Trading Company uses them to maintain its place as the leading supplier in Faerûn.

Discrete Manufacturing: Crafting Blades and Baubles

Discrete manufacturing is used for distinct, countable items—think longswords, lanterns, and lockboxes. These items are produced in set quantities, with clearly defined bills of materials (BOMs) and routings.

Example:

The Silvered Shortsword is assembled in discrete batches of 25 using individual components like hilts, blades, and enchantment-infused pommels.

Usage:

• Production orders are created per batch.
• Components are reserved and consumed using standard picking lists.
• Work centers and resources are allocated through routings.

Process Manufacturing: Brewing Potions and Alchemical Supplies

For concoctions, tonics, and other consumables, process manufacturing takes the lead. This model handles formulas instead of BOMs and uses co-products and by-products.

Example:

The Potion of Fire Resistance is brewed in vats, using fluid measures and concentration levels.

Usage:

• Formula versions are set for various potency levels.
• Batch attributes track things like concentration and expiration.
• Co-products (like Weak Potion Residue) are tracked for repurposing or disposal.

Lean Manufacturing: Assembling Kits and Packs on Demand

Lean manufacturing supports made-to-order kits with minimal overhead and maximum efficiency—ideal for items assembled based on immediate customer demand.

Example:

The Dungeon Survival Pack is a configurable kit containing rope, torches, rations, and flint.

Usage:

• Kanban rules trigger pack assembly when sales orders are placed.
• No BOMs or traditional routings needed—assembly happens at packing stations.
• Ideal for customization (e.g., swapping rations for vegetarian options).

Why Mixed Mode Matters

Mixed mode manufacturing allows the Waterdeep Trading Company to:

• Scale across diverse product lines without reworking core setups.
• Support both standard inventory and made-to-order goods.
• Optimize material usage through formula balancing and by-product tracking.
• Stay agile in a chaotic economy where customer needs change by the tenday.

And with Dynamics 365, these modes aren’t siloed—they coexist under one umbrella, sharing inventory, costing models, and quality control data. This synergy ensures the Company can serve blacksmiths, brewers, and bulk buyers without breaking stride.

Looking to master manufacturing in Dynamics 365 like a true Waterdhavian trade lord?  Pick up the complete guides at adnd365.com/start

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