Also: Significant Part Numbers, Semi-Significant Part Numbers.

Smart part numbers are part numbers in which each character is coded to represent a product family, physical characteristic or other aspect of the part. Smart part numbers allow a precise identification of an item simply by looking at the number.

In contrast, are part numbers that are sequentially or randomly assigned and convey no product information. Part numbers that combine elements of both smart and randomly assigned numbers are called semi-significant part numbers.

Smart part numbers can be used to automatically enter orders into ERP and order entry systems. Some manufacturers use these numbers in place of a bill of materials, or parse these numbers to provide the parametric information needed to produce a product.

CustomCommerce supports the use of manufacturer's smart part numbers in its online catalogs. CustomCommerce's product configurator can build and validate smart part numbers as product options are selected.