What Does Build to Order Mean?

Design to order is a manufacturing approach in which the individual parts of a product are designed and assembled according to a specific customer order.

*Source: https://oroox.com/en/design-to-order

Assemble to order is a manufacturing approach in which products are assembled upon receipt of an order. Basic product parts are planned and stocked in anticipation of the order. Once the order is received, the parts are quickly assembled, and the final product is delivered to the customer.

*Source: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/a/assemble-to-order.asp

Build to order products are linked to a specific sales order, whereas build to stock products are based on sales projections or anticipated customer demand. Unlike build to stock products which are mass-produced, build to order products are more customized and require longer lead times for delivery.

Source: https://www.thomasnet.com/insights/make-to-order-vs-make-to-stock/

A build to order supply chain (BOSC) is a demand-driven manufacturing approach in which products are built according to the requirements of individual customers at competitive prices within a short time period. By leveraging the capabilities of outsourcing and information technology, BOSC eliminates the forecasting, inventory, and setup required to customize products—resulting in significant cost savings.

*Source: https://www.academia.edu