Inventory, in a manufacturing context, is the goods and materials used to create a product or provide a service. It can include raw materials, components, parts, finished products, and supplies that are necessary for production. These items must be accurately tracked and managed throughout the production process in order to ensure efficiency and quality. Inventory management is a vital part of any successful business, as it allows businesses to track their resources and optimize their processes. With efficient inventory management, businesses can keep costs low while maximizing productivity and profitability.