Introduction to Message Output Control
Message Output Control in SAP determines how and when business documents like Purchase Orders, Goods Receipts, and Requests for Quotations are generated, processed, and sent to external partners or internal teams. This control manages document output (print, e-mail, EDI) in response to specific business transactions or events.
Message Output Control for RFQs automates the generation and transmission of RFQ documents through various mediums (print, e-mail, EDI, fax). This process is managed by Message Determination in the Materials Management (MM) module. When an RFQ is created or changed, the system automatically sends a message (output) to SAP Ariba Strategic Sourcing in a predefined format (EDI) to communicate RFQ details efficiently and consistently. This ensures the external sourcing system receives the necessary documents in the right format at the right time.
Configuration and Technical Details
NACE is the main transaction for managing output control settings. Condition records must be maintained for automatic message triggering.
Each document type in SAP has an associated application. For RFQs, the application is EA. A message type defines the document type being sent. NEU is the standard message type for RFQs. Various output mediums are available, such as Print, Fax, EDI, and Email/External send. SAP uses a condition technique to determine message sending. The message content is formatted using tools like SAPscript, SmartForms, and Adobe Forms.
In short, Message Output Control ensures RFQs are automatically sent in a structured, traceable, and configurable way.
EA is an Application Code in SAP used to define the functional context for determining message output control in RFQ processing and integration.
Key Benefits
Automation of Communication: Automatically sends RFQs to SAP Ariba Strategic Sourcing after creation or change and reduces manual intervention and human error.
Time and Cost Efficiency: Speeds up the procurement process and saves costs on manual printing, mailing, and follow-ups.
Multi-Channel Delivery: Supports various output mediums: print, email, fax, EDI, etc.
Consistency and Standardization: Ensures all outgoing RFQs follow a standard format and structure.
Integration with External Systems: Enables seamless EDI integration with SAP Ariba Strategic Sourcing.
Traceability and Audit Readiness: Every message is logged and stored.
Customization and Scalability: Fully configurable using condition techniques and can be tailored for different vendors, document types, plants, etc.
Error Reduction: Reduces risks of missing or incorrect RFQs due to automated logic and checks. Alerts or errors in output processing can be traced and corrected quickly.
Video Demonstration
In this video you’ll learn how to maintain the required configuration to trigger the Request for Quotation messages: