Distribution groups

A distribution group is a defined a set of nodes or external organizations.

Once you have set your distribution group definitions, you can then associate the defined distribution group with a sourcing rule. Sterling Order Management System Software considers all the nodes or organizations that are part of this group and optimizes on various factors for making the node selection. A priority number can also be specified for each node or organization. This priority number is used for node selection based on the optimization mode being used for scheduling.

For example, in the following figure, multiple distribution node groups such as "East Coast", "Central", and so forth, are depicted. Notice that a single node can be part of multiple node groups at the same time.

Also, note that it is not always necessary to create distribution groups because of proximity of shipping locations. You may create groups to differentiate between your own nodes and external suppliers and then use the sourcing rule's sequencing feature to first try and source from your own nodes. If not enough inventory is found, Sterling Order Management System Software looks into the supplier nodes.