Different systems can be adopted for codifying materials on the basis of your choice of use of coding symbols, comprising numbers, alphabets or a combination of both (often known as alphanumeric codification). There are primarily two types of systems: Brisch and Kodak.
Brisch System – This is based on numbers starting 0 to 9, and will comprise usually three blocks, separated by decimals. All blocks get specifically classified materials. The block from the left indicates the classification of raw materials, packaging materials and finished materials, whereas, the middle block shows next level classification, like the nature, use, features and quality of materials, and the last block on the right shows the lowest level classification, like the quality of materials, its part components, appearance, availability, prices, source of supply, frequency of use, marketability, etc.
Kodak System – This system was developed by Eastman Kodak Co. based out of New York. Being comprehensive in nature, it is comprised of 10 digits with numerical code. The key level grouping is the source of supply. Materials are assigned 100 different classifications, as per the purchase and procurement considerations. For example, if a bolt is listed under hardware category and can be availed from hardware vendors, it is considered a hardware item. But if is available only as a part of the machine, it will be available under maintenance.
Colour Coding System – Colour codes are a very useful tool used for item identification. Say, for instance, colours like red, green and blue used for electric cables, red and green for electric switches, etc. There also exists national and international colour coding system. Using less number of colours in coding can limit the scope. Nevertheless, colour coding system is a proven effective item identification mechanism.
