The orchestration framework is the downstream document generation module in SAP Agricultural Contract Management. After capturing and saving the data in the Load Data Capture (LDC) process, the orchestration framework is invoked to generate the necessary documents downstream. Although we refer to it as the orchestration framework, it is a component within the Trader Schedules Workbench (TSW) module that we utilize for document generation.
The TSW module originated from the IS oil industry, where there was a similar need for automated document generation due to high transactional volumes. We leverage this module to generate our documents downstream, aligning with the requirements of the agricultural origination and trading business.
In this business, automation is crucial to streamline processes and handle the significant volume of transactions efficiently. We strive to automate tasks such as validations, system document creation, automated calculations, and result storage for auditing purposes. The successful completion of each task triggers the next process step until all steps are executed.
In cases where errors occur during a specific process step, it is essential to capture and store any relevant information, including the reasons behind the errors. Authorized users can access this information through logs and work centers, allowing them to take appropriate actions to remediate and reprocess the transaction until all the process steps associated with the particular business process are successfully completed.
By incorporating this orchestration framework and automation capabilities, we can enhance efficiency, accuracy, and traceability in our high-volume agricultural origination and trading operations.
During the LDC process, various pieces of information are entered, including load details and reference documents (such as contracts, purchase orders, sales orders, or nominations). There are framework application instructions that correspond to specific business scenarios, such as third-party purchases, third-party sales, intercompany, or intracompany transactions.
When a reference document is entered, the system automatically determines the corresponding application instruction. This determination involves factors such as title transfer and configuration tables, which dictate the sequence of function modules responsible for generating the required documents in the background.
For example, if a reference document indicates a third-party purchase contract, the system determines the application instruction, title transfer, and the specific scenario related to third-party purchase for transfer at the destination. It then identifies the relevant function modules for creating the purchase order, call-off to the trading contract, goods receipt for the inbound delivery, and the SAP Agricultural Contract Management application document.
The orchestration framework encompasses this entire process, facilitating document generation and providing logs for analysis. In the event of a failure at any function module, the logs offer insights into the cause of the failure. Additionally, the framework allows users to drill into the document, make necessary corrections, and reprocess the transaction, ensuring completion of the document generation steps.
The orchestration framework includes a workflow that enables visibility into the generated documents. It also incorporates work centers where users can access logs, perform error resolution, and handle document regeneration.
Note
It's important to note that the extended document workflow is necessary for scenarios where SAP Agricultural Contract Management generates additional documents beyond the standard document flow. This extended workflow also offers additional functionality, such as the ability to reverse actions.
Overall, the business rules within the orchestration framework guide the selection of scenarios and facilitate reversal and correction processes when needed.
Function module stacks are predefined by SAP according to the respective standard business process.
The orchestration framework allows for an easy extension concept to adapt to the specific business needs of an agricultural company.
Additional function modules can be implemented and inserted at any place in the function module stack. However, this necessitates the following:
- Additional coding and integration with other components
- Additional validations (possibly)
- Monitoring of the impact on overall performance