The Materials module provides three levels for the description and classification of materials.
At the most general level are material classification codes, which specify a particular type of stock item. These classification codes are created and maintained through the Materials Classification Codes Window. The codes are arranged hierarchically, and are defined by your agency. AgileAssets recommends using an agency structure (if one exists already) or defining a structure based upon logical groupings.
At the second level are master codes, which are maintained in the Master Codes Window. Master codes are the generic names for stock items. These codes are more specific than classification codes and create a sub-type for a particular type of stock item. For example, a classification code could be Screws. Master code examples could then be 2 inch Screws - Phillips, 2 inch Screws - Straight blade. Each master code is assigned a materials classification code. Master codes are created and maintained in this window, the Setup Master Codes window.
The third level is the stock bin itself. Stock bins are shown in the Material Inventory window. A stock bin is a master code assigned to a specific administrative unit. (The system also supports stockpiles, which are essentially stock bins not located in a warehouse; instead, the materials are located out in the field, along a road or on a truck for example.)
