The Component Information System (CIS) is a central part of the OrCAD Capture design solution. Using CIS provides designers with shared a searchable database to utilize while completing their designs. It also promotes reuse of component information instead of individual repeated effort. It automatically synchronizes and validates the externally sourced data with the schematic design database. CIS works with any database that complies with Microsoft's ODBC standard to directly access data in an MRP, ERP, or PLM system, or in an intermediate database dedicated to engineering component data. With easy access to component databases and part information, designers can reduce the amount of time spent researching parts. CIS allows users to identify, utilize, and design with preferred components. Parts can be queried based on their electrical, physical, or corporate characteristics, then be automatically retrieved for use in the schematic. Adding components directly from company databases minimizes errors in bills of materials (BOMs) and parts lists, and allows control of part usage for industry directives such as RoHS and WEEE.