In SAP MM, a release strategy is a process that controls the approval of purchase orders. The release strategy is based on the value of the purchase order, and it ensures that the appropriate levels of management approve purchase orders before they are issued to vendors. Here are the steps for setting up a release strategy for purchase orders in SAP MM:
Step 1: Activate release strategy
The first step is to activate the release strategy function in SAP MM. This is done by configuring the release indicator and creating the classification for the release strategy.
Step 2: Define release groups
The second step is to define the release groups, which are used to group purchase orders based on their value. Release groups are defined using the classification created in step 1.
Step 3: Assign release codes
The third step is to assign release codes to the release groups. Release codes are used to identify the individuals who are authorized to release the purchase orders for each release group.
Step 4: Define release prerequisites
The fourth step is to define release prerequisites, which are the criteria that must be met before a purchase order can be released. Release prerequisites can include a range of criteria, such as the order value, the purchase order type, and the vendor.
Step 5: Assign release strategies to purchase orders
The final step is to assign release strategies to purchase orders. This is done by assigning a release group and release code to the purchase order. When the purchase order is saved, it is automatically assigned to the appropriate release strategy.
Here are some best practices for setting up a release strategy for purchase orders in SAP MM:
- Define clear criteria for release: Ensure that the criteria for release is clearly defined, and that it aligns with your organization's purchasing policies and procedures.
- Limit the number of release levels: Limit the number of release levels to ensure that the approval process is efficient and does not cause delays.
- Use automated notifications: Use automated notifications to alert the appropriate individuals when a purchase order is ready for release.
- Test the release strategy: Test the release strategy thoroughly before implementation to ensure that it is working as intended.
- Review the release strategy periodically: Review the release strategy periodically to ensure that it remains effective and aligned with your organization's purchasing policies and procedures.
Here is an example code snippet for setting up a release strategy for purchase orders in SAP MM:
TCode: SPRO
Step 1: Activate release strategy
Configure the release indicator and create the classification for the release strategy.
Step 2: Define release groups
Define the release groups based on the purchase order value.
Step 3: Assign release codes
Assign release codes to the release groups to identify individuals who are authorized to release the purchase orders.
Step 4: Define release prerequisites
Define the release prerequisites, such as the order value, purchase order type, and vendor.
Step 5: Assign release strategies to purchase orders
Assign release strategies to purchase orders by assigning a release group and release code to the purchase order.
Step 6: Test the release strategy
Test the release strategy to ensure that it is working as intended.
Step 7: Review periodically
Review the release strategy periodically to ensure that it remains effective and aligned with the organization's purchasing policies and procedures.
This code snippet shows the steps for setting up a release strategy for purchase orders in SAP MM using transaction code SPRO. The steps involve activating the release strategy function, defining release groups, assigning release codes, defining release prerequisites, assigning release strategies to purchase orders, testing the release strategy, and reviewing the release strategy periodically. The best practices mentioned include defining clear criteria for release, limiting the number of release levels, using automated notifications, testing the release strategy, and reviewing the release strategy periodically.