Custom Infotypes in SAP HR: Enhancing Data Storage

In the SAP HR (Human Resources) world, information types are robust containers that store essential employee information. Standard SAP info types cater to a wide range of HR data, such as addresses (Infotype 0006), personal data (Infotype 0002), and bank details (Infotype 0009). However, sometimes, your organization has specific data tracking needs that need to be met by the out-of-the-box options. Custom info types are your solution!

Why Create Custom Infotypes?

Here are some of the main reasons to create custom info types in SAP HR:

• Tailored Data Tracking: Design info types to track data specific to your industry, company policies, or unique HR processes. Examples include specialized training certifications, project assignments, or company-specific benefits.
• Streamlined HR Processes: Custom info types support your HR workflows, allowing you to collect and manage the data you need without workarounds.
• Centralized Data Management: Custom info types integrate with the SAP HR environment, avoiding fragmented data storage and improving data integrity.

Steps for Creating a Custom Infotype

Let us walk through the essential steps of creating your custom info type:

1. Planning:
   • Clearly define the purpose of the custom info type.
   • Determine the exact data fields it will contain (data types, lengths, key fields).
   • Consider any relationships or dependencies with other info types.
2. Infotype Creation (Transaction PM01):
   • Assign a 4-digit number (typically starting with ‘9’) to identify your info type.
   • Select “Employee Infotype” and “PS Structure Infotype” options.
   • Define the data fields within your PS structure.
   • Save and activate your structure.
3. Technical Characteristics:
   • Configure storage and retrieval settings.
4. Infotype Characteristics
   • Specify time constraints (how many records can exist simultaneously).
   • Define screen layouts and user input behaviors if needed.
   • Configure any subtype characteristics (additional groupings within the info type).

Important Considerations

• Data Naming: Use meaningful naming conventions for fields and structures to ensure clarity.
• Documentation: Thoroughly document your custom info types and their purpose for future maintenance.
• Integration: Ensure your custom info types can be accessed through standard SAP HR transactions or custom reports.
• Testing: Rigorously test your new info type in a development environment before live deployment.

Example Scenario

Let us say your company wants to track specialized technical certifications held by employees. You could create a custom info type with the following fields:

• Certification Name
• Certification Body
• Issue Date
• Expiration Date
• Renewal Status

Beyond the Basics

• Screen Enhancements: Design custom screens (using Screen Painter) to tailor the info type’s display and data entry.
• Dynamic Actions: Trigger workflows or validations based on data input into the custom info type.
• Reporting: Include custom info type data in standard or custom HR reports.

In Conclusion

Custom info types allow SAP HR systems to adapt to your organization’s precise data needs. Following a structured approach and considering best practices will significantly extend your system’s capabilities!