Ordering routing methods specify how a Purchase Order (PO) is sent to each supplier. SAP Ariba Buying and Invoicing offers several ways to deliver POs, each suited to different supplier capabilities and ERP configurations. Supplier's preferred ordering methods are identified in their supplier location data. Supplier's preferred ordering methods can also be defined via their SAP Business Network supplier account.
Routing Categories
- Send PO to the ERP (for supplier dispatch)
SAP Ariba Buying and Invoicing sends the PO to the ERP, which is then responsible for dispatching it to the supplier.
- Use Case: Your ERP is the system of record and handles PO transmission to the supplier (via EDI, email, fax, etc.).
- Examples:
- Export to ERP: The PO is generated in SAP Ariba Buying and Invoicing and exported to ERP (Example: SAP S/4HANA), which transmits it to the supplier.
- ERP Dispatch via EDI/Email: The ERP dispatches the PO using its own configured output method.
- Key Benefits:
- Centralized supplier management in ERP.
- Aligns with organizations relying on ERP as the procurement hub.
- Copy PO to ERP (for internal copy)
SAP Ariba Buying and Invoicing sends a copy of the PO to the ERP, but SAP Ariba Buying and Invoicing also transmits the PO to the supplier via SAP Business Network.
- Use Case: You want SAP Ariba Buying and Invoicing to handle supplier communication but still want to store PO data in ERP for tracking or financial alignment.
- Example: PO is transmitted to supplier via SAP Business Network, and an informational copy is also sent to ERP.
- Key Benefits:
- Real-time network-based communication with suppliers.
- Synchronization with ERP for downstream processing.
- Send PO Directly to the Supplier (no ERP)
Ariba directly dispatches the PO to the supplier using one of several available methods.
- Use Case: SAP Ariba Buying and Invoicing is the central platform for procurement and sends orders directly to suppliers.
- Routing Methods:
- Electronic Ordering: Sends the PO via cXML file to the Supplier on the SAP Business Network – the preferred and most robust method.
- Email.
- Fax: Rare, but supported.
- Printing (Manual): Supplier prefers a printed copy, typically delivered by mail or in person.
- Key Benefits:
- Supplier communication is fully tracked within SAP Ariba Buying and Invoicing.
- External systems are not needed for PO transmission.
Summary
- PO routing methods define how POs are delivered to suppliers.
- Routing is based on supplier location settings or SAP Business Network profiles.
- Send PO to ERP: sends the PO to ERP, which then dispatches it (e.g., via EDI, email).
- Copy PO to ERP: sends the PO to both the supplier (via SAP Business Network) and ERP (for internal tracking).
- Send PO Directly to Supplier: SAP Ariba transmits the PO directly via cXML (preferred), email, fax, or manual print.
- Direct SAP Ariba routing enables full tracking and bypasses ERP systems.
- ERP-based routing centralizes control but relies on external system integration.