“Manufacturers” represent companies that actually create parts. “Suppliers” represent a company that you can order something from. In some cases, the manufacturer may also be the supplier. In this case, you typically would just create a manufacturer in 4G:PLM. If you order something from a supplier that is distinct from the manufacturer, then you would typically create a supplier object in 4G:PLM.
For example, if a person purchases a car from a local dealer, and not directly from manufacturer. Then the local dealer is the supplier and the company that manufactures the car is the manufacture.
To create a new manufacturer or supplier, go to the “New Objects” menu and select either “Manufacturer” or “Supplier”. The creation process for both is similar. You will be able to set various attributes:
Figure 3.9: Manufacturer Details Window
The lifecycle phase will be defined by your administrator. These attributes help you track manufacturers or suppliers that are approved for doing business with (or avoiding).