Explaining SAP's access sequences

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In SAP, access sequences are integral to how the system determines tax rates, discounts, prices, and other condition types in the pricing procedure. They help SAP find the appropriate records in condition tables based on specific criteria. Understanding access sequences is essential for effectively configuring SAP's pricing, tax determination, and various other functionalities.

Key Concepts of SAP Access Sequences

1. Definition

SAP uses an access sequence search strategy to find valid condition records in condition tables. An access sequence consists of one or more access steps, each corresponding to a table containing condition records.

2. Structure

An access sequence comprises multiple access steps that you can configure. Each step checks a specific condition table to find the applicable condition record. The search proceeds through the access steps in a defined order until a condition record is found or until all steps have been checked.

3. Components of Access Sequences

• Condition Tables: These tables in SAP contain key fields used to determine conditions. For example, condition tables can include fields such as material number, customer number, and sales organization.
• Access Steps: Each access step in an access sequence specifies which condition table should be checked and what fields are used.
• Field Keys: Access steps use fields (keys) relevant to the condition type (e.g., pricing, tax determination) to identify if specific records can be used for calculations.

4. Configuration

Access sequences are configured in the SAP Customizing Implementation Guide (IMG) under the Pricing section for various modules, including Sales and Distribution (SD) and Materials Management (MM). An administrator can create new access sequences or modify existing ones based on business requirements.

5. Search Strategy

When the system needs to determine a condition (like a tax rate or discount), it will look up the access sequence assigned to that condition type. The system checks each access step in the defined sequence and stops when the first valid condition record is found. If no valid record is located after checking all steps, the system may apply a default or reference condition set.