## Bill of Materials (BoM)
Also called: Materials Specification List / Materials List.
### Definition
A detailed list specifying the standard quantity and quality of materials and components needed to make a product or complete a specific job.
### Key facts
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Prepared by | Product development team — usually the engineering or planning department |
| Purpose | Accurate material planning and coordination across Marketing, Production, Stores and Cost/Accounting |
| Content | Each material/component with specifications, quantity, and sometimes part number or source |
| Format | Varies by industry, MIS, and accounting practices |
### Uses across departments
- Marketing (Purchase) Dept. — materials are purchased on the basis of specifications in the BoM.
- Production Dept. — production is planned by nature/volume of materials; material requisition lists are prepared from it.
- Stores Dept. — used as a reference document while issuing materials to the requisitioning department.
- Cost/Accounting Dept. — used to estimate cost and profit; purchases, issues and usage are verified against it.
> Exam tip: Because the BoM is prepared before production by engineering/planning, it sets the standard — making it useful for quotations and for quantitative control.