<h2>Assemble to Order (ATO)</h2>
<p>Assemble to Order (ATO) is a manufacturing strategy that produces customized products only after receiving a customer's order. This approach is particularly useful for products with a high degree of variability or when demand is uncertain.</p>

<h2>How It Works</h2>
<p>ATO involves three main stages:</p>
<ul>
  <li><strong>Order receipt</strong>: The customer places an order specifying their desired product configuration.</li>
  <li><strong>Production</strong>: The manufacturer assembles the product to match the customer's specifications once the order is received.</li>
  <li><strong>Delivery</strong>: The finished, customized product is then delivered to the customer.</li>
</ul>
<p>To make ATO efficient, manufacturers maintain modular, interchangeable components and use flexible production lines that can quickly adapt to different orders.</p>

<h2>Why It Matters for Businesses</h2>
<p>ATO offers several advantages:</p>
<ul>
  <li><strong>Reduced inventory</strong>: Since products are not made until ordered, there's less need to hold large inventories of finished goods.</li>
  <li><strong>Faster response to market changes</strong>: ATO allows businesses to quickly adjust to shifting customer preferences or new trends.</li>
  <li><strong>Improved customer satisfaction</strong>: By offering customized products, businesses can better meet individual customer needs.</li>
</ul>

<h2>Example</h2>
<p>Consider a computer manufacturer using ATO. When a customer orders a laptop, the manufacturer selects the appropriate components (CPU, RAM, storage, etc.) from their inventory and assembles the laptop to match the customer's specifications. Once assembled, the laptop is shipped to the customer.</p>

<h2>Key Takeaways</h2>
<ul>
  <li>ATO is a manufacturing strategy that produces customized products only after receiving a customer's order.</li>
  <li>ATO involves receiving an order, producing the customized product, and delivering it to the customer.</li>
  <li>ATO can help businesses reduce inventory, respond faster to market changes, and improve customer satisfaction.</li>
</ul>