Knowledge Of Master Data For SAP SD

Introduction to Master Data in SAP SD

In the SAP Sales and Distribution (SAP SD) module, master data forms the foundation for all transaction processing. Whether it's sales orders, deliveries, billing, or customer payments, accurate and consistent master data is essential. Understanding the knowledge of master data for SAP SD empowers businesses to streamline operations and improve customer relationships.

Types of Master Data in SAP Sales and Distribution

SAP SD relies on several types of master data, each serving a specific purpose:
  1. Customer Master Data
  2. Customer-Material Information Record
  3. Material Master Data
  4. Condition Master Data
  5. Common Master Data
  6. Additional Master Data

Customer Master Data in SAP SD

Customer master data is critical as it stores all the information required to process customer-related transactions. It is categorized into three main sections:

General Data

Stored centrally and shared across all company codes and sales areas.

Key Tabs:

  • Address: Name, address, and communication language.
  • Control Data: Tax identification, legal control information.
  • Payment Transactions: Bank details for payment processing.
  • Marketing: Industry type, customer classification.
  • Unloading Points: Operating hours for goods receipt.
  • Export Data: Information for export compliance.
  • Contact Person: Contact details of customer representatives.

Sales Area Data

Specific to each sales organization, distribution channel, and division.

Key Tabs:

  • Sales: Currency, customer group, pricing procedures.
  • Shipping: Delivery plant, transportation zone, shipping conditions.
  • Billing: Payment terms, Incoterms, credit control data.
  • Partner Functions: Defines roles like Sold-to Party, Ship-to Party, Bill-to Party, and Payer.

Company Code Data

Relevant for accounting and financial transactions.

Key Tabs:

  • Account Management: Reconciliation account.
  • Payment Transactions: Payment methods and bank details.
  • Correspondence: Dunning procedure, accounting clerk.
  • Insurance: Coverage amounts and policy information.
Important Note: Changes in customer master data do not retroactively affect previously created documents, except for address changes.

Role of Sales Area Data

If a customer belongs to multiple sales organizations, each organization must maintain its own Sales Area Data. This ensures the correct configuration of sales processes and financial tracking.

Additionally, Incoterms can be maintained differently within each sales area based on logistics and legal considerations.

Account Group Control in SAP SD

The Account Group defines:
  • Number range assignment
  • Field selection (mandatory, optional, hidden)
  • Partner functions
This structure ensures the correct classification and control over customer data.

Customer Master Data in Sales Documents

Sales documents pull master data automatically, enhancing speed and accuracy.
 
Data Type Source Use
Delivery Date, Tax Info Ship-to Party Scheduling & Tax Calculation
Payment Terms, Credit Limit Payer Financial Risk Assessment
Invoice Address Bill-to Party Billing
Shipping Conditions, Pricing, Incoterms Sold-to Party Logistics & Pricing

Customer-Material Information Record

This record links customer-specific material details with internal SAP materials.

Key Features:

  • Customer material number and description.
  • Sales order entry using customer’s part number.
  • Delivery preferences: plant, complete or partial delivery.
It streamlines order entry and improves customer satisfaction.

Material Master Data in SAP SD

The Material Master contains all product-related data needed for SD, MM, and PP modules.

Main Data Views:

  • Basic Data 1: Material group, base unit of measure, old material number.
  • Sales Org 1: Delivering plant, tax classification, minimum order/delivery quantities.
  • Sales Org 2: Bonus group, product hierarchy, item category group.
  • Sales General/Plant: Availability check, loading group, batch management.
  • MRP 3: Availability check strategies.
  • Storage Views: Storage conditions, serial number profiles.
  • Foreign Trade Export: Export/import groups, origin region.
  • Sales Text: Descriptive text for use in sales documents.
Note: The behavior of material master is controlled by the Material Type, which determines what data fields are required and how the material is used in processes.

Benefits of Master Data in SAP SD

  • Improved Accuracy: Reduces data entry errors.
  • Automation: Pre-population of data in transactions.
  • Consistency: Ensures standardized data across modules.
  • Efficiency: Speeds up order-to-cash cycles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is master data in SAP SD?

Master data in SAP SD refers to core records like customer data, material data, and pricing conditions that support all sales and distribution transactions.

2. Can we use one customer master for multiple sales areas?

Yes, but each sales area needs to maintain its specific data for that customer.

3. What happens if we update customer master data?

Changes do not impact existing documents, except for address changes, which update automatically.

4. How is a customer material info record used in sales orders?

It allows users to enter the customer’s material number, automatically linking it to the internal SAP material.

5. What is the role of account group in customer master data?

The account group determines number ranges, field selections, and controls the creation process of customer master records.

6. Can we customize Incoterms per sales area?

Yes, Incoterms can be defined differently in each sales area depending on business rules.

Conclusion

Having a solid knowledge of master data for SAP SD is crucial for efficient and accurate sales and distribution processes. By organizing and maintaining master data such as customer records, materials, and pricing conditions, businesses can unlock automation, reduce errors, and improve customer satisfaction.

Read also:
Text Determination Procedure in SAP SD

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