What is typically the last step in the MRP process?

The last step in the Materials Requirement Planning (MRP) process is order release. This step involves issuing the necessary orders for the materials or components that are required to meet the production schedule, based on the planning and scheduling that have taken place earlier in the MRP process.

Once all the requirements have been calculated, including the inventory levels and the lead times for procurement, the release of orders marks the transition from planning to execution. It ensures that the necessary resources are secured and that the production process can commence as planned. This step is crucial for maintaining production efficiency and meeting customer demand.

In contrast, planning involves developing a strategy and assessing needs, inventory allocation pertains to the distribution of available inventory, and scheduling production focuses on defining which operations will occur at specific times. While all these steps are critical components of MRP, the act of releasing orders is the definitive step that transitions plans into actionable procurement and production activities.