1. What is an Alternative Calculation Type (Alt Cal Type)?
SAP uses predefined calculation types (addition, subtraction, multiplication, etc.) to determine condition values. However, in cases where standard calculation methods are insufficient, SAP allows businesses to define custom calculation routines via an Alternative Calculation Type.How It Works
- Standard Calculation: The system follows predefined
rules to compute the condition value.
- Alternative Calculation: A custom logic overrides
the standard rule, applying an externally determined formula or percentage.
Example Scenario
Let’s assume:
- A condition type ZZ01 has a maintained value
of $100.
- A discount condition type ZZ02 applies 10%.
Standard Calculation:
100 + (10% × 100) = 110
Using an Alternate Calculation Type:
Instead of applying the 10%, we override it with an externally
determined 20%.
100 + (20% × 100) = 120
Use Cases for Alternate Calculation Types
- When pricing depends on complex formulas (e.g.,
freight charges based on volume, weight, or other non-standard factors).
- When an external system determines certain pricing
components.
- When companies want customized calculations
based on specific business rules.
2. What is an Alternative Condition Base Value (Alt Base Value)?
The Alternative Base Value determines the calculation basis for condition values. Normally, SAP uses the standard price (e.g., PR00) to calculate conditions, but there are situations where a different base is required.Example Scenario
Let’s assume:
- Condition type ZZ01 has a maintained value
of $100.
- A discount condition type ZZ02 applies 10%.
- The original base value is $100, but we want
to use $90 (PR00 price instead of list price) as the base.
Using an Alternate Base Value:
Instead of using $100 as the base, we instruct
SAP to use $90.
100 + (10% × 90) = 109
3. Understanding the Requirement Field in SAP Pricing Procedures
The Requirement Field in the pricing procedure controls when a condition is applied. If the specified requirement is not met, SAP does not retrieve the condition record.Example Scenario
Let’s say we have a requirement that a condition
should only be applied if the order is in a foreign currency.
- Condition: Pricing condition applies only for
international orders.
- Requirement Assigned: The system checks if the
order is in a foreign currency before applying the condition.
- Effect: If the order is in local currency, the
condition is skipped.
4. Key Takeaways
| Field | Purpose | Example Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Alternative Calculation Type (Alt Cal Type) | Overrides the standard calculation formula (e.g., % instead of fixed amount) | Applying a custom discount formula |
| Alternative Base Value (Alt Base Value) | Defines a different base for the condition calculation | Applying taxes or discounts on a different base price |
| Requirement Field | Ensures conditions apply only when certain criteria are met | Pricing conditions only for foreign currency orders |
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use both Alternative Base Value and Alternative Calculation Type together?Yes, combining both allows for maximum pricing flexibility, enabling custom base values and alternative calculation methods simultaneously.
Q2: When should I use a Requirement Field?
Use it when you want to restrict condition application
based on predefined conditions, such as customer type, order value,
or currency.
Q3: Can Alternative Base Value be used for tax calculations?
Yes, you can use it to apply tax on a different base
value, such as the net price instead of the gross price.
