In this process, pump P-502 is configured in multiple levels in the sales order. This means that not only the product (pump) can be configured but also the assembly group (casing, and so on). The characteristic value assignment is stored for each BOM item that has been configured. The requirements for the pump are then transferred to MRP. Characteristic value assignment is used to determine the material components required for the header material. If some of the components have their own characteristic values, they are also transferred to MRP and the parts for these materials can be determined.