<P> Material requirements planning (MRP) is a production planning, scheduling, and inventory control system used to manage manufacturing processes . Most MRP systems are software - based, but it is possible to conduct MRP by hand as well . </P> <P> An MRP system is intended to simultaneously meet three objectives: </P> <Ul> <Li> Ensure materials are available for production and products are available for delivery to customers . </Li> <Li> Maintain the lowest possible material and product levels in store </Li> <Li> Plan manufacturing activities, delivery schedules and purchasing activities . </Li> </Ul> <Li> Ensure materials are available for production and products are available for delivery to customers . </Li>

What is a key feature of materials requirements planning (mrp)