The only improvement the manufacturer could make regarding assembly, is if the bench could assemble itself.  There are three Steps [with drawings] in the assembly procedure, but you can ignore the last two. Waste of paper and ink. Very sturdy bench.  My initial concern was the lack of any lateral bracing in the design, but the mortises and hardware are sufficient for the bench to meet the demand for which it was designed.  Looks great.  Over all, a good value, and I may buy another.