A serial number is an identifier which, in combination with an item prime identifier (Item Number), identifies a specific instance of a physical item.

A serial number is allocated to an item to maintain records against the individual item. These records can include:

• A Product baseline
• Documents
• Waivers, deviations, and modifications
• The as-configured record for a complete serialized item structure.

A serialized item has the following attributes:

• It is a removable and maintainable item
• It always includes a quantity
• It can be main equipment
• It is an instance of a physical item
• It is an entity of which its functional and physical characteristics must be measured to determine and record its suitability for use.

A batch number is an identifier which, in combination with an item prime identifier (Item Number), identifies a quantity of the same item that has been processed as one group, i.e. fabricated. Batch quantities are always associated with batch numbers.

Batch numbers are allocated to maintain specific records against the item number/batch combination. These records can include:

• A Product baseline
• Documents
• Waivers, deviations, and modifications.

Items identified in batches are managed in the same way as serialized items by AssetWise.

A batch number is typically allocated to a quantity of the same item for which:

• There is no need to maintain records per individual item
• It is impractical to maintain records per individual item
• When the item cannot be distinguished as a set of individuals, for example, a volume of liquid chemicals.