Demystifying SAP PP Tables in S/4 HANA

For those in the SAP Production Planning (PP) world, navigating the tables behind the scenes can be crucial. In the transition to S/4 HANA, understanding how these tables work becomes even more critical. This blog post will guide you through the key SAP PP tables in S/4 HANA.

Mastering Master Data Tables

• Material Master (STKO, MARD): The foundation of PP, these tables store information on your materials, including BOM (bill of materials) components and routing assignments.
• Bill of Materials (STPO, STKO): These define the components needed to produce a finished product and are housed within the Material Master tables.
• Work Center (CRHD, CR01): Define your production locations and capabilities, containing details like capacity and availability.
• Routing (PLKO, PLPO): Outline the production steps for a material linked to the Bill of Materials in the Material Master.

Understanding Production Orders

• Production Order Header (AFKO): Holds the core data of a production order, such as planned start/finish dates, material requirements, and routing information.
• Production Order Item (AFPO): Details the components needed for a production order, referencing the Bill of Materials.
• Production Order Operation (AFVC): Defines the individual steps within a production order linked to the Routing.
• Production Order Confirmation (AFRU): Records the confirmation of production activities and updates inventory levels.

Additional Important Tables

• Reservations (RESB): Track allocated materials for production orders, ensuring sufficient stock is available.
• Capacity Planning (CBP): (KBKO, KBED) Manage and analyze production capacity against planned workloads.
• Planned Independent Requirements (PIR) (PBIM, PBED): Forecast future demand for materials, driving MRP (Material Requirements Planning).

Navigating S/4 HANA Besonderheiten (Special Features)

While most PP tables remain similar in S/4 HANA, there are some key considerations:

• Simplified data structures: S/4 HANA leverages its in-memory capabilities to streamline table structures, improving performance.
• Enhanced functionalities: Certain functionalities may reside in tables that are different from those of ECC (ERP Central Component).

Tips for Table Mastery

• Leverage SE16: This SAP transaction allows you to explore and query any table.
• Utilize ABAP reports: Custom ABAP reports can be designed to extract specific data from PP tables.
• Seek expert guidance: Consulting with an SAP PP expert is recommended for complex tasks.

By understanding these key SAP PP tables and their role in S/4 HANA, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the production planning process effectively. Remember, this is just an introduction and further exploration is encouraged to become a PP table whiz!