---
title: Basic Terminology
description: Welcome to this knowledge article, where we will provide you with a comprehensive list of the basic terminology used throughout the Method Platform.
---

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January 10, 2024

# Basic Terminology

## Welcome to this knowledge article, where we will provide you with a comprehensive list of the basic terminology used throughout the Method Platform.

**Industry Catalog:** The industry catalog is a comprehensive collection of dental supplies, consisting of over 600k products, meticulously curated and updated by Method.

- Provides information on the products including SKU numbers, manufacturing part numbers, suppliers, photos, and pricing.

**Catalog**:  Personalized lists of preferred products curated by you.

**Inventory**: Keeps a record of the quantity of supplies currently available and assists with the process of reordering items.

- A consistent record of products received and shipped.

**Request**: A Request (purchase proposal) document that enables you to systematically and efficiently create a list of products for purchase.

- A single Request has the ability to include items from various suppliers, providing a clear display of quantities and pricing for each line item.

**Approval Process**: The approval process involves a predetermined workflow and a designated approver who reviews the submitted Request (purchase proposal).

- Approved: The approver has carefully reviewed and given their approval for the Request (purchase proposal).
- Declined: The approver has carefully reviewed and rejected the Request (purchase proposal).

**Purchase Order (or Order)**:  A purchase order, also known as an order, is a legal agreement between the buyer and seller for the procurement of supplies.

- Method issues the purchase order on your behalf to the supplier electronically.

**Receiving:** Confirmation of physical receipt and acceptance of supplies at your designated location.

- To include products that are not currently in your Inventory, simply navigate to the Inventory tab and select the Add option.

- Accepted items will update your current Inventory quantities automatically if the item is already present in your Inventory.

 

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