NetSuite Matrix Items Explained by GIR Software Services: Track Product Variants with Ease

If your inventory consists of products that have various variations, such as shirts available in different sizes and colors, then NetSuite’s Matrix Items feature is the ideal tool for you. This feature allows you to monitor each combination as a distinct item while maintaining all connections under a single parent record.

What Are Matrix Items in NetSuite?

Matrix items consist of parent items that have associated child items determined by attributes such as size, color, or material. Each unique combination represents a distinct SKU, yet all are linked to the same parent item. For instance, a single t-shirt design may be available in 3 colors and 3 sizes. NetSuite monitors all 9 combinations separately.

Why Use Matrix Items?

– Simplifies inventory for the complex product lines

– Facilitates the mass generation of variants

– Enhances the clarity of transactions and improves the accuracy of reporting.

Before You Begin: Key Prerequisites

– Custom Lists: Create separate lists for each variant option (e.g., Color, Size)

– Custom Item Fields: Used to reference the custom lists on item records

– Custom Transaction Item Options: Needed if items will be listed on your web store

How to Enable Matrix Items

1. Go to Setup > Company > Enable Features

2. Navigate to the Items & Inventory subtab

3. Check the Matrix Items box and click Save

Option 1: Use the Matrix Item Assistant (Recommended)

1. Go to Lists > Accounting > Items > New

2. Click the Matrix Item Assistant link next to your item type

3. Follow the steps:

– Set up Item Basics (Name, Vendor, Subsidiary, Price)

– Create Property Lists (e.g., Size and Color)

– Choose Property Combinations (select valid combinations only)

– Finish auto-generate all child items

Option 2: Manual Creation of Matrix Items

1. Create custom lists and custom item fields for each variant category

2. Go to Lists > Accounting > Items > New

3. Click Create Matrix Items link for your item type

4. Fill out the item form, then go to the Accounting subtab

5. Under the Matrix Items section, select values for each variant

6. From the Actions menu, click Create Matrix

Final Thoughts

NetSuite’s matrix items make it easier to manage product variants. Whether you offer clothing, electronics, or hardware with a variety of specifications, using matrix items correctly can improve inventory management, increase data precision, and optimise your sales process.

At GIR Software Services, we help businesses unlock the full power of NetSuite. Need help building your own matrix? Let’s talk.