Creating a Distribution Network
After you create distribution categories, you can set up a distribution network. A distribution network is made of categories that are grouped for trading. A network can have multiple subsidiaries.
Distribution Resource Planning is part of Time-Phased Planning which is no longer supported. This functionality has been replaced by Planning Rules in Supply Planning (MRP).
First, identify which categories are included in each network. Then, NetSuite distribution planning can be implemented based on a subsidiary-wide distribution network and goods can be transferred between locations as needed.
For example, Wolfe International includes the following subsidiaries:
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North America
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EMEA
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APAC
Each subsidiary manages multiple distribution categories:
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North America: NA Soap, NA Paper, NA Drinks
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EMEA: EMEA Soap, EMEA Paper, EMEA Drinks
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APAC: APAC Soap, APAC Paper, APAC Drinks
To manage these categories, Wolfe can set up a network such as the following:
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Network = North America
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Category = NA Soap
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Category = NA Paper
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Category = NA Drinks
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Network = APAC
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Category = APAC Soap
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Category = APAC Paper
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Category = APAC Drinks
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When each network identifies categories and subsidiaries in this way, NetSuite can identify sources within the network to process distribution planning.
To create a distribution network:
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Go to Lists > Supply Chain > Distribution Network > New (Administrator).
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Enter a name for the distribution network.
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Optionally enter a memo. Later, you can search for the text you enter here.
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For OneWorld accounts, select the appropriate subsidiaries to associate with this network.
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If you do not want this network to show in lists, check the Inactive box.
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In the Distribution Category field, select a category. For more information, on creating categories, see Creating a Distribution Category.
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Click Add.
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Add additional categories as appropriate.
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Click Save.