An ACL is an Approved Components List, sometimes called an Approved Parts List. It maps internal part numbers to one or more manufacturer part numbers that have been qualified for use within a company. Often, a company will have a list of parts and manufacturers approved, or disapproved, for use within their products.

An AML is an Approved Manufacturer List, sometimes called an Approved Supplier List or Approved Vendor List. It is a list of Manufacturers and Suppliers that are approved for purchasing by your company. An approved manufacturer is a firm that is compliant with a list of corporate requirements from your company.

Maintaining a quality ACL is a proven way to reduce risks within your designs. It ensures that your designers are using the best possible parts with the longest life, which extends the life of your overall product.

Having an AML may be required for your particular industry. The top two industries requiring an AML are aerospace & defense and medical device manufacturers. An AML can help reduce costs by requiring purchases through suppliers with which a special discount is available.