S4F94
Overview SAP S/4HANA Finance
for group reporting
.
.
PARTICIPANT HANDBOOK
INSTRUCTOR-LED TRAINING
.
Course Version: 20
e-book Duration: 8 Hours 30 Minutes
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iii
Typographic Conventions
American English is the standard used in this handbook.
The following typographic conventions are also used.
This information is displayed in the instructor’s presentation
Demonstration
Procedure
Warning or Caution
Hint
Related or Additional Information
Facilitated Discussion
User interface control
Window title
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iv
Contents
vi
Course Overview
1
Unit 1:
2
14
SAP Group Reporting Overview
Lesson: Describing the Key Terms, Features, and Architecture
Unit 2:
Master Data and Structures
15
Lesson: Explaining Consolidation Groups and Units
22
Lesson: Explaining Ledgers, CoA, Versions, and Architecture
28
Lesson: Managing Breakdown Categories and Subitems
31
Lesson: Explaining Additional Master Data and Custom Fields
40
Unit 3:
Data Preparation
41
Lesson: Describing Consolidation Tasks
44
Lesson: Acquiring Data
53
Lesson: Describing Document Types and Posting Levels
56
Lesson: Discussing Group Journals and Selected Items
60
Lesson: Explaining Currency Translation
72
Unit 4:
Consolidations and Eliminations
73
Lesson: Reviewing Intercompany Matching and Reconciliation
79
Lesson: Discussing Intercompany and Matrix Eliminations
89
Lesson: Describing Rule Based Consolidation of Investments
97
Lesson: Explaining Activity Based Purchase & Equity Method
107
Unit 5:
Reporting Features
108
Lesson: Describing the Reporting Features
115
Lesson: Explaining the Group Reporting Value Proposition
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v
Course Overview
TARGET AUDIENCE
This course is intended for the following audiences:
●
Application Consultant
●
Business Analyst
●
Business Process Owner/Team Lead/Power User
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vi
UNIT 1
SAP Group Reporting
Overview
Lesson 1
Describing the Key Terms, Features, and Architecture
2
UNIT OBJECTIVES
●
Discuss the Key Terms, Features, and Architecture
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1
Unit 1
Lesson 1
Describing the Key Terms, Features, and
Architecture
LESSON OBJECTIVES
After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
●
Discuss the Key Terms, Features, and Architecture
Overview, Architecture, and Key Terms
Business Example
Your organization wants to install SAP S/4HANA Finance for group reporting to streamline its
processes so that it can focus on profitable growth. For this reason, you require the following
knowledge about the application:
●
An understanding of the key terms and components.
●
An understanding of the features and benefits.
SAP S/4HANA Finance for Group Reporting
Figure 1: SAP S/4HANA Finance for Group Reporting - Key Benefits
Group Reporting provides a seamless process between the local and group closing activities
since both are in the SAP S/4HANA core. Both local and group closing activities utilize the
same user interfaces as well. Utilizing continuous accounting, you speed up the closing
process to provide more time to analyze and act on results when it matters most.
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2
Lesson: Describing the Key Terms, Features, and Architecture
Figure 2: Continuous Accounting and Group Reporting
SAP S/4HANA Finance for group reporting is inspired by other SAP consolidation solutions
such as Financial Consolidation (FC), Enterprise Controlling-Consolidation System (EC-CS),
Business Consolidation Systems (BCS), and Business Planning and Consolidation (BPC).
The Group Reporting Suite
The Group Reporting suite includes more than just a consolidation engine.
All of the products in the following figure ( The Group Reporting Suite ) are new solutions and
are not legal successors to any existing SAP Consolidation application.
Advances in group reporting technology are also helping companies accelerate their
corporate closing processes.
The ability exists to run consolidation on data which has been captured in the Universal
Journal either directly for those companies using S/4HANA Accounting as their Accounting
system or via Central Finance, which can take data into SAP S/4HANA Accounting in realtime, even if the Group has many different SAP and non-SAP ERP systems.
In addition to these real-time capabilities, where data is released to Consolidation in real-time,
customers can also load the data directly to the consolidation application via file-upload in a
traditional periodic manner from source ERP systems. Other options to get data into Group
Reporting are Advanced Programming Interfaces (APIs) and Group Reporting Data
Collection, and they will all do the required consolidation checks or breakdown checks before
updating Group Reporting.
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3
Unit 1: SAP Group Reporting Overview
Figure 3: The Group Reporting Suite
Group Reporting on-line help: https://help.sap.com/viewer/
4ebf1502064b406c964b0911adfb3f01/1909.002/en-US/
c27c73226dac4e07ac8aa59a45f92fd8.html
Find latest official roadmap at: https://www.sap.com/products/roadmaps.html
Figure 4: SAP Disclosure Management
For information on SAP Disclosure Management: https://help.sap.com/viewer/product/
SAP_DISCLOSURE_MANAGEMENT/DM%20Stack%2017xx/en-US
The benefit of integration is enhanced when a significant amount of data is being sourced
from the Universal Journal. Accordingly, there is often a logical point at which it makes sense
to transition from a legacy consolidation solution to SAP S/4HANA Finance for group
reporting based on the proportion of data available within the core central Finance
environment.
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4
Lesson: Describing the Key Terms, Features, and Architecture
Deployment Options
Figure 5: Deployment Options
S4HANA Finance for group reporting: https://help.sap.com/viewer/DRAFT/
4ebf1502064b406c964b0911adfb3f01/1909.000/en-US/
c27c73226dac4e07ac8aa59a45f92fd8.html
2659672 - FAQ About SAP S/4HANA Finance for group reporting (on premise): https://
launchpad.support.sap.com/#/notes/2659672
2659656 - FAQ About SAP S/4HANA Cloud for group reporting: https://
launchpad.support.sap.com/#/notes/2659656
Central Finance
Figure 6: Central Finance
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5
Unit 1: SAP Group Reporting Overview
With Central Finance, customers can connect their distributed system landscape to a
centralized SAP S/4HANA Finance system. This can be made up of a combination of SAP
systems of different releases and non-SAP systems. Financial Accounting (FI) and
Management Accounting (CO) postings can be replicated into this Central Finance system.
The Group Reporting Process
The Group Reporting Process consists of 4 main steps:
1. Data collection: Load data from SAP S/4HANA and outside sources.
2. Preparation: Perform currency translation if needed, adjust the data to align with
corporate accounting standards, and match intercompany.
3. Consolidation: Eliminate intercompany transactions and post ownership related
adjustments.
4. Reporting: Analyze the results.
Table 1: Key Terms
Term
Definition
Posting Level
Differentiator between reported financial data (00), standardized(10), interunit eliminations (20), and group-dependent consolidation postings (30).
Document Type
Audit trail of automatic and manual consolidation entries.
Consolidation Unit
Legal entity or management reporting entity.
Consolidation Group
A group of consolidation units on which you create a consolidated result.
Partner Unit
The partner consolidation unit relating to intercompany
transactions and eliminations. Commonly known as trading
partner.
Financial Statement item
Group account for consolidation.
Version
Differentiator between Actuals / Plan / Forecast /... or different rules applied to the same raw data.
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6
Lesson: Describing the Key Terms, Features, and Architecture
Term
Definition
Subitem
There two types of subitems:
●
●
Transaction type: used for balance sheet data for opening balance, variation etc.
Functional area: used for income statement data. For
example administration, sales, marketing.
Data Model
The accounting document actual (ACDOCA) table consolidates data that was traditionally
stored in separate tables:
●
General ledger
●
Profitability analysis
●
Controlling
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Asset Accounting
●
Inventory
These structures provide aggregation on the fly and support for local, operational, and group
reporting.
Delivered Content
With the preconfigured content, SAP S/4HANA Finance for group reporting provides out-ofthe-box features for users. Customers can also make their own configuration settings based
on the content delivered by SAP, which will accelerate the implementation process.
Getting the most recent SAP Best Practices content: https://help.sap.com/viewer/
S4HANA1909_AdminGuide/c156f7d72c3a4a40963e9e12257da29f.html
Frequently Asked Questions: OSS Note 2659672.
●
The delivered content includes the
●
Delivered content is used to speed up implementations.
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7
Unit 1: SAP Group Reporting Overview
●
Use the content as is or copy and adapt.
Best Practices Scope Items
Group Reporting - Financial Consolidation (1SG): This scope item provides statutory financial
consolidation capabilities for SAP S/4HANA customers.
Group Reporting - Matrix Consolidation (3LX): This scope item supports consolidation for
managerial organizational entities such as profit center and business segment. This
functionality includes inter-unit eliminations and flexible management consolidation reports
generated at report run-time.
Group Reporting - Plan Consolidation (28B): With this scope item, the plan data can be
collected from a file using the flexible upload feature of SAP S/4HANA, or generated from
previous year actual data. The user can then run a full consolidation process including
currency translation, intercompany elimination, and investments eliminations and reporting.
The application includes several versions to enable reporting (Actual versus Plan, Plan, and
Forecast).
Intercompany Reconciliation Process ( 40Y): This scope item covers the process of
reconciling the accounting documents that describe the accounting transactions within a
corporate group in accordance with the predefined matching method. It allows early analysis
in the closing process to avoid differences altogether and to reduce the deadline pressure
that normally arises during the end of a closing period.
Data Migration
SAP S/4HANA Finance for group reporting is a new implementation.
Data model and solution concepts from BCS and BPC may be useful when implementing SAP
S/4HANA Finance for group reporting but are not readily transferable.
Transition from EC-CS to SAP S/4HANA for Group Reporting: https://
launchpad.support.sap.com/#/notes/2833748
What's New in Group Reporting 2020: https://jam4.sapjam.com/groups/
krCACRoaJjN3uqGm3TyJ1e/documents/iTYeNlzFMDEL8nzm1APrgH/slide_viewer?
_lightbox=true
What's New in Group Reporting 2021: https://jam4.sapjam.com/groups/
krCACRoaJjN3uqGm3TyJ1e/documents/QxQ316t9revDJmKse5TLhk/slide_viewer?
_lightbox=true
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8
Lesson: Describing the Key Terms, Features, and Architecture
SAC BI & Planning Integration
SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC) - Integration & Business Intelligence
Figure 8: SAC Integration
SAP Analytics Cloud is a single solution for business intelligence and enterprise planning,
augmented with the power of predictive analytics and machine learning technology. It helps
everyone in your organization make fast, confident decisions for better business outcomes.
BI or Business Intelligence is the analytics component of SAC.
●
SAC has data persistence as well as live connection options.
●
SAC stories are also embedded into SAP Fiori apps.
●
●
Data is released from ACDOCP into ACDOCU from the Data Monitor based on the planning
settings in the consolidation version.
For more information on Consolidation Planning: https://help.sap.com/viewer/DRAFT/
4ebf1502064b406c964b0911adfb3f01/2021.000/en-US/
6817703d2d4241f98e078b0bec858079.html
Financial Consolidation for S/4HANA Cloud (Best Practice Analytics scope item 2K6) enables
a pre-built set of analytical dashboard and reports that help to analyze the balance sheet,
profit & loss and cash flow for robust analytics on SAP S/HANA Cloud data.
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9
Unit 1: SAP Group Reporting Overview
Best Run SAC Stories for Group Reporting
Figure 9: Best Run SAC Stories for Group Reporting
As shown in the preceding image, the data can either be live or imported into SAC models. If
the data is imported, the actual data can be copied to a plan version and then planning can be
performed in SAC.
Figure 10: SAC Embedded (for SAP S/4HANA Cloud for group reporting
In the preceding figure, the story has been launched from a SAP Fiori tile.
SAC embedded is based on live connections. Several formatted reports are provided in prebuilt stories. There are also self-service capabilities for creating custom Analytic Apps
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10
Lesson: Describing the Key Terms, Features, and Architecture
LESSON SUMMARY
You should now be able to:
●
Discuss the Key Terms, Features, and Architecture
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11
Unit 1
Learning Assessment
1. Which of the following describes the SAP S/4HANA Finance for group reporting (GR) on
premise solution?
Choose the correct answers.
X
A It runs on the SAP Business Warehouse (BW) platform and uses BW queries.
X
B It is completely integrated into the SAP S/4HANA core.
X
C It is implemented in a SAP S/4HANA landscape but can access data from external
sources.
X
D It uses SAP Analysis for Microsoft Office and SAP Fiori for reporting.
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12
Unit 1
Learning Assessment - Answers
1. Which of the following describes the SAP S/4HANA Finance for group reporting (GR) on
premise solution?
Choose the correct answers.
X
A It runs on the SAP Business Warehouse (BW) platform and uses BW queries.
X
B It is completely integrated into the SAP S/4HANA core.
X
C It is implemented in a SAP S/4HANA landscape but can access data from external
sources.
X
D It uses SAP Analysis for Microsoft Office and SAP Fiori for reporting.
Correct. GR is completely integrated into the SAP S/4HANA core. It is implemented in a
SAP S/4HANA landscape. It uses Analysis for Microsoft Office and SAP Fiori for reporting.
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13
UNIT 2
Master Data and
Structures
Lesson 1
Explaining Consolidation Groups and Units
15
Lesson 2
Explaining Ledgers, CoA, Versions, and Architecture
22
Lesson 3
Managing Breakdown Categories and Subitems
28
Lesson 4
Explaining Additional Master Data and Custom Fields
31
UNIT OBJECTIVES
●
Explain Consolidation Groups and Units
●
Explain Ledgers, CoA, Versions, and Architecture
●
Manage Breakdown Categories and Subitems
●
Discuss Additional Master Data and Custom Fields
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14
Unit 2
Lesson 1
Explaining Consolidation Groups and Units
LESSON OBJECTIVES
After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
●
Explain Consolidation Groups and Units
Consolidation Units and Groups
Consolidation Units Key Points
●
Consolidation units represent legal subsidiaries.
●
SAP S/4HANA companies are linked to consolidation units on a one-to-one basis.
●
The SAP S/4HANA Company ID is the same as the consolidation unit ID.
●
●
●
Consolidation units that are in the Universal Journal are referred to as Integrated or S4
Companies. .
Consolidation units that are not in the Universal Journal are referred to as Not Integrated
or Spreadsheet Companies .
Consolidation units can be uploaded.
Figure 11: Consolidation Unit Configuration Concept
●
Local Currency: Local / operating currency of the legal subsidiary.
●
Sender Local Currency.
●
●
-
Relevant only for integrated consolidation units.
-
Determines the source field in ACDOCA to update the ACDOCU local currency.
Data Transfer Method : Non-integrated consolidation units can use flexible upload to
update the ACDOCU table.
Key points regarding the Consolidation Unit Sender Group Currency setting:
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15
Unit 2: Master Data and Structures
●
●
●
-
This identifies the ACDOCA field to feed the ACDOCU group currency.
-
Applicable only for integrated consolidation units.
Data Transfer Method : Integrated consolidation units must be set to Read from Universal
Journal but can still use flexible upload to update the ACDOCU table.
Company : The SAP S/4HANA company is linked to the consolidation unit.
Effect Yr Read from Univ Journal : Fiscal year as of when the Read from Universal
Document data transfer method is used for a consolidation unit.
Consolidation Units:https://help.sap.com/viewer/
4ebf1502064b406c964b0911adfb3f01/2020.000/en-US/
787d21653d8148c1beae0965f283a3d3.html
Figure 12: Consolidation Unit Time & Version Dependent Attributes
Consolidation unit attributes are time and version dependent. This increases flexibility. The
assignments across versions and time periods can be viewed within the same app.
Consolidation Group Configuration
●
A consolidation group is made up of consolidation units.
●
Consolidation groups are required to prepare consolidated financial statements.
●
A consolidation unit can belong to more than one consolidation group.
●
In the Manage Group Structure apps, the consolidation groups and consolidation units of
the selected consolidation group are displayed. You can maintain the first and last
consolidation dates (period/year). You can also specify the parent unit each group.
Consolidation Groups:
https://help.sap.com/viewer/4ebf1502064b406c964b0911adfb3f01/2020.000/en-US/
0afefef9f276421cae7d7be46ad205e4.html
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16
Lesson: Explaining Consolidation Groups and Units
Manage Group Structure
There are two apps to manage the group structure:
●
●
●
Group View: with this app, you manage the assignments of consolidation units for a
specific consolidation group. You can make consolidation relevant settings for these
assignments, such as the period of the first consolidation, the period of the divestiture, and
the consolidation method.
Unit View: With this app, you manage the assignments of a consolidation unit to the
consolidation group(s) that it is assigned to. You can make consolidation relevant settings
for these assignments, such as the period of the first consolidation, the period of the
divestiture, and the consolidation method.
https://help.sap.com/viewer/4ebf1502064b406c964b0911adfb3f01/1909.000/en-US/
bb6e2212b60441d09d893e9a71ceaf7f.html
Figure 13: Group View
●
●
Consolidation Units can be assigned to consolidation groups from either of the group
structure apps. Or, the assignments can be imported via flat file imports.
In the group structure apps, a method is assigned to each consolidation unit by
consolidation group.
With the introduction of a new architecture/reporting logic, Group Structure apps can only be
used by customers with an initial release 1909 or higher. Customers that upgrade from an
earlier release should use the Consolidation Group Hierarchy - Display and Change and
Accounting Method Assignment - Display and Change apps instead.
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17
Unit 2: Master Data and Structures
Sample Ownership Structure
Figure 14: Sample Ownership Structure
●
As an example, in the preceding figure there are three consolidation groups:
-
CG00W - World.
-
CG00A - America.
-
CG00E - Europe.
Consolidation Groups and Units
1. Go to the SAP Fiori Launchpad.
2. In the Master Data group, open the Define Consolidation Units app.
3. Enter TA00. Since the attributes are version and time dependent, version and time are
required.
4. In the details, display the views:
●
Show attribute values only
●
Show attribute values and validity periods
●
Display the currency method over time and across versions
5. Open the Consolidation Groups app.
6. Go to the CG00W group in change mode.
7. Display the Master Data and Methods tabs.
8. In the Master Data group, open the Manage Group Structure-Group View app.
9. Go to the CG00W group in change mode.
10. To display the settings, open CA00 in Edit mode.
11. Switch to 2022 Jan and add CU 1710 as a purchase sub to the world group.
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18
Lesson: Explaining Consolidation Groups and Units
Global Hierarchies
Hierarchies - Key Points
●
Global hierarchies provide key reporting features:
-
Matrix eliminations (first common parent determination).
-
FS Item hierarchies for US GAAP vs. IFRS and so on.
-
Hierarchy variables are automatically available for reports.
-
-
Report rule hierarchies used to report on: Statement of Equity, Statement of Cash Flow
and so on.
Group reporting hierarchies are available for the following dimensions:
■
Consolidation unit, profit center, segment.
■
FS Items and reporting items.
■
Posting levels, subitems, document types.
For more information about how to manage Global Accounting Hierarchies, see https://
help.sap.com/viewer/DRAFT/5e23dc8fe9be4fd496f8ab556667ea05/2021.000/en-US/
8e040a45e4db4e6abd426bee0a86dc8a.html
Create Global Hierarchies
Figure 15: Create Global Hierarchies
The hierarchy types are enabled by dimension in the IMG in Define Consolidation Master Data
Fields.
Consolidation hierarchy
All Consolidation* hierarchy types are available in group reporting. For example, if you need a
Cost Center hierarchy in a group report, it must be the Consolidation Cost Center hierarchy
type. The Cost Center type hierarchy is only available in the S4H core reports.
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19
Unit 2: Master Data and Structures
Figure 16: Configure Global Hierarchies
You can import nodes from other hierarchies and you can import an entire hierarchy as well.
For more information about how to use the Export/Import feature, see Define Hierarchies
Figure 17: Use Global Accounting Hierarchies
Global Hierarchies
1. Go to the SAP Fiori Launchpad.
2. In the Master Data group, open the Manage Global Hierarchies app.
3. Open the BS - Consolidation Financial Statement Item hierarchy.
Note the import/export options.
4. Go back to the Manage Global Hierarchies app.
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20
Lesson: Explaining Consolidation Groups and Units
5. Choose the plus icon (+) and display the drop down for the hierarchy types. The types that
begin with the word Consolidation can be used by group reporting.
LESSON SUMMARY
You should now be able to:
●
Explain Consolidation Groups and Units
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21
Unit 2
Lesson 2
Explaining Ledgers, CoA, Versions, and
Architecture
LESSON OBJECTIVES
After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
●
Explain Ledgers, CoA, Versions, and Architecture
CoA and FS Items
Consolidation Chart of Accounts
●
Y1 is the delivered chart of accounts (CoA).
●
The COA determines the output length (max = 10) of FS Items.
●
The COA contains FS Items.
●
Customers can create their own COA or modify FS Items in Y1.
FS Items - Key Points
●
FS Items represent accounts in group reporting.
●
One or more G/L accounts are mapped to each FS Item.
●
FS Items are updated via file upload or the Define FS Items app.
●
FS Item mapping to G/L accounts are updated via file upload.
●
You can use multiple hierarchies on FS Items.
A Financial Statement (FS) item represents the fundamental account assignment in the
consolidation system. It forms the basis for consolidation data collection, posting, and
reporting along the consolidation process.
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22
Lesson: Explaining Ledgers, CoA, Versions, and Architecture
For more information about Financial Statement Items, see https://help.sap.com/viewer/
DRAFT/4ebf1502064b406c964b0911adfb3f01/2021.000/en-US/
33e57a9f475c4aab8748e178af0f2b7c.html .
FS Item Fields
●
Financial statement (FS) item type is a required property that indicates the nature of FS
items. The following item types are available:
-
INC: Income statement items
-
EXP: Expense statement items
-
AST: Asset items in balance sheets
-
LEQ: Liabilities and equity items in balance sheets
-
-
●
●
STAT: Statistical items that can be used to record financial and non-financial data. This
data is not directly linked into P&L statements or balance sheets, such as headcount
information.
REPT: Dedicated hierarchies can be defined for reporting items, and respective
reporting rules can be defined to derive values of the reporting items.
The item type settings for FS items are used by balance carryforward and the annual net
income calculation for example.
Consolidation item: these items are consolidation specific such as goodwill. They do not
require a mapping to GL accounts.
●
No Posting: use this setting to block postings.
●
Breakdown Category: this controls transaction data field updates.
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23
Unit 2: Master Data and Structures
Note:
FS Items should be viewed primarily via the SAP Fiori apps. The IMG screens
contain many fields that are not used by SAP S/4HANA Finance for group
reporting.
FS Item Attributes
Motivation for FS Item Attributes:
●
●
The common motivation for introducing selection attributes and target attributes is to
decouple configuration (e.g. of selections or reclassification methods) from master data
management.
By using selection attributes and target attributes instead of FS item numbers it is possible
to replace the SAP delivered consolidation chart of account with a customer specific one
without the immediate need to adjust/rebuild all delivered selections, reclassification
methods, etc.
FS Item Attributes in General
Figure 19: De-coupling Master Data from Configured Objects
Figure 20: FS Item Download (and Groups / Units)
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24
Lesson: Explaining Ledgers, CoA, Versions, and Architecture
Selection Objects
●
●
●
Instead of hard coding FS Items in currency methods for example, selection objects are
used. This helps to de-couple master data from configured objects. Customers can more
easily use their own chart of accounts with the delivered content.
Selection objects are used to select characteristic combinations for currency and
reclassification methods for example. Selection are used to:
-
Select the opening balance for non-historical balance sheet items.
-
Select elimination items for all trading partners (partner unit).
Selection objects are re-usable. This lowers the cost of maintenance.
Figure 21: Selection Object FS Item Attributes Method Selection Integration
FS Items are assigned to attributes. The attribute values are then included in selection objects
which are used in the currency and reclassification / elimination methods. One of the benefits
of this approach is that methods do not have to be changed and transported if there is a new
item assignment needed. Also, the selection objects are re-usable.
Consistency Checker App: When there are changes to FS Item's mappings and company /
consolidation unit assignments, the consistency check should be run in order to confirm that
all of the relevant updates were successful.
CoA and FS Items
1. Go to the SAP Fiori Launchpad.
2. In the Master Data group, open the Define FS Items app.
3. Display 111100.
4. In the Master Data group, open the Import Consolidation Master Data app.
5. Show how easy it is to download the FS Items for CoA Y1.
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25
Unit 2: Master Data and Structures
The currency translation attribute is used to select similar FS Items for the currency process,
for example.
Consolidation Versioning
Version - Key Points
Figure 22: Unlimited Versions
●
Version is also referred to as Category in other solutions.
●
Version has a dual purpose in SAP S/4HANA Finance for group reporting:
1. Data Version: Keep track of actual, budget, forecast transaction data.
2. Special Version: Allow the ability to quickly consolidate data in different ways without
having to make redundant configuration.
Version for Plan Data: Select to enable release of data from ACDOCP to ACDOCU.
© Copyright. All rights reserved.
26
Lesson: Explaining Ledgers, CoA, Versions, and Architecture
Architecture
Figure 23: Group Reporting Architecture
For more information, see https://help.sap.com/viewer/DRAFT/
4ebf1502064b406c964b0911adfb3f01/2021.000/en-US/
aed5eca9c8294b398ab968c54abd4fed.html.
Consolidation Versioning
1. Go to the SAP Fiori Launchpad.
2. In the Consolidation Settings group, open the Set Global Parameters app.
3. Display the value list in the version drop down.
There are unlimited versions.
The Set Global Parameters app is used to set the data region for consolidation processing.
LESSON SUMMARY
You should now be able to:
●
Explain Ledgers, CoA, Versions, and Architecture
© Copyright. All rights reserved.
27
Unit 2
Lesson 3
Managing Breakdown Categories and
Subitems
LESSON OBJECTIVES
After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
●
Manage Breakdown Categories and Subitems
Breakdown Categories and Subitems
Figure 24: Breakdown Category Concept
Breakdown Category Concept
Breakdown categories classify subassignments that are required for FS items to perform
consolidation tasks.
For each FS item, the breakdown category determines which subassignments must be
recorded into the ACDOCU table. If the source records do not contain consolidation
transaction type, then it will be derived assuming the breakdown category allows it.
Breakdown Categories
●
●
Breakdown categories (BDC) control field (subitem) values when posting transactional
data to ACDOCU.
There are two subitem categories:
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28
Lesson: Managing Breakdown Categories and Subitems
1. Transaction Types: Relevant for balance sheet accounts and include opening balance,
incoming units, and net variation for example. Transaction Types are very useful for
cash flow statements for example.
2. Functional areas: Relevant for income statement accounts and include sales revenue,
marketing, and consulting for example. Functional areas are used to report on
summarized profit and loss data for example.
Transaction Types
Figure 25: Transaction Types
Transaction Types Key points:
●
●
Carry forward to subitem : When balance carry forward is run, values for this transaction
type will be written to 900.
No Posting / Entry: Subitem blocked against manual postings.
Transaction type 900 is reserved for the balance carry forward task. It cannot be updated via
data collection for example unless the import is during the period of first acquisition for the
consolidation unit. 900 is delivered as blocked for postings. This can be turned off if needed
for start-up scenarios for example.
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29
Unit 2: Master Data and Structures
Functional Areas
Figure 26: Functional Areas
Traditional definition: An element in an organizational structure that classifies expenses
based on the functions performed by the employees.
Typical functional areas are Sales, Production, Marketing, Administration, and Research and
Development.
Note:
Cost centers can be used as a breakdown category instead of functional areas for
example.
Manage Breakdown Categories and Subitems
1. Go to the SAP Fiori Launchpad.
2. In the Master Data group, open the Display Subitems and Subitem Categories app.
3. Open the 915 transaction type and point out that it is carried forward to the 900 opening
balance transaction type.
4. Expand the list of Functional Areas.
These are used to report on P&L data but at a summary level versus FS Items.
LESSON SUMMARY
You should now be able to:
●
Manage Breakdown Categories and Subitems
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30
Unit 2
Lesson 4
Explaining Additional Master Data and Custom
Fields
LESSON OBJECTIVES
After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
●
Discuss Additional Master Data and Custom Fields
Additional Master Data
Figure 27: Define Master Data of Consolidation Fields
With the Define Master Data for Consolidation Fields app, you can define master data for
consolidation-specific fields such as business area, segment, profit center, and customer
group, in addition to viewing the standard master data available from General Ledger
Accounting, so that you can support the consolidation process and produce more insightful
analysis reports.
Prerequisite: You have defined the master data fields to be used in Customizing for SAP S/
4HANA for group reporting under Master Data→ Define Consolidation Master Data Fields.
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31
Unit 2: Master Data and Structures
Figure 28: Master Data Definition for Profit Center
For example, you can create your own consolidation profit centers, book group journals, and
report on the data in just a few minutes.
Additional Master Data
1. Go to the SAP Fiori Launchpad.
2. In the Master Data group, open the Define Master Data for Consolidation Fields app.
Dimensions listed here are either available by default or can be turned on by customers.
3. Note that Profit Center has 5 members that are exclusively owned by group reporting.
4. Add the PC_LOB1 profit center. As a result, it is now available for use in group reporting.
Custom Fields
Custom Fields Concept
In a typical SAP S/4HANA Group Reporting implementation, there is usually a request from
business users to create custom fields and integrate it into posting and reporting interfaces.
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32
Lesson: Explaining Additional Master Data and Custom Fields
Figure 29: Custom Fields Concept
Custom fields can be added exclusively to ACDOCU if needed.
Custom fields can be created either using the Custom fields and Logic app or by using a
transaction code OXK3. Custom fields for the Group Reporting: Journal Entry Item business
context are included in the ACDOCU table by design.
Custom Field in a Group Journal
Figure 30: Custom Field in a Group Journal
Note:
The custom field will be empty in records generated automatically via selected
items.
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33
Unit 2: Master Data and Structures
Custom Attributes
Figure 31: FS Item Custom Attribute - Introduction
Financial statement item attributes are key in driving the consolidation process. By grouping
similar financial statement items under common attributes, you can already tailor the process
steps of data collection, currency translation, elimination, and analysis around these
groupings.
As of release 2108, you can create your own financial statement (FS) item attributes. They
can then be used in selections, reclassification rules, totals validation rules, and analytics.
After creating new custom fields and field values for the FS item master data you can add the
new fields to the FS item UI or the filter bar. Then you could use your new attributes in many
different steps of the consolidation process. For example, as selection attributes to facilitate
validations and eliminations at various stages in the life of an FS item or as a target attribute
for a new swinging position reclassification based on FS item balances. These are just a few
examples illustrating the flexibility of this innovation.
Figure 32: Custom Attribute Example
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34
Lesson: Explaining Additional Master Data and Custom Fields
When a developer selects the “Adapt UI” entry in the users menu, it opens the “UI Adaptation”
mode. In this mode, fields may be added to or removed from the UI, or may be rearranged in
sequence and position, field groups may be added, changed, or removed,UI labels my be
changed, etc. By clicking “Save & Exit” the applied changes will become visible for all users of
the app.
Custom fields that are added to the FS Item maintenance UI are automatically integrated into
the import / export app. Custom defined FS item attributes are always optional.
Create a Custom Attribute for a Target Attribute
1. Open the Custom Fields (or Custom Fields and Logic) app.
2. Create a new field for a consolidation financial statement item time/version dependent.
3. Select the type Association to Business Object →consolidation financial statement item.
4. Choose Create & Edit.
5. Enable Usage →Save →Publish.
6. Open the Define FS Items app and go into an FS Item.
7. Go to Adapt UI mode.
8. Go to the Target Attributes group →Add Field →Publish.
LESSON SUMMARY
You should now be able to:
●
Discuss Additional Master Data and Custom Fields
© Copyright. All rights reserved.
35
Unit 2
Learning Assessment
1. Which of the following describes Consolidation groups and units?
Choose the correct answers.
X
A Cons Units represent legal subsidiaries.
X
B SAP S/4HANA company codes are linked to cons units on a one-to-one basis.
X
C SAP S/4HANA companies are linked to cons units on a one-to-one basis.
X
D Sender Local Currency is relevant only for integrated cons units.
2. Which of the following describes versions?
Choose the correct answers.
X
A Version is also referred to as Category in other solutions.
X
B Version is used to determine group currency.
X
C Versions/special versions allow the ability to quickly consolidate data in different
ways without having to make redundant configuration.
X
D Special versions allows you to mix and match actual data with different versions of
consolidation objects.
3. Which of the following describes breakdown categories and subitems?
Choose the correct answers.
X
A Breakdown categories (BDC) are used to control subitem and other sub
assignments for transactional data.
X
B Profit center is a type of subitem.
X
C Functional area is a type of subitem.
X
D Transaction type is a type of subitem.
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36
Unit 2: Learning Assessment
4. Which of the following describes additional master data?
Choose the correct answers.
X
A Additional master data deals with field settings other than cons groups, cons units,
and FS items for example.
X
B You can enable dimensions to be available for input forms.
X
C You can change settings to meet your business requirements for group journal
fields and hierarchies.
X
D SAP S/4HANA Finance for group reporting can utilize SAP S/4HANA and non-SAP
S/4HANA master data very easily.
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37
Unit 2
Learning Assessment - Answers
1. Which of the following describes Consolidation groups and units?
Choose the correct answers.
X
A Cons Units represent legal subsidiaries.
X
B SAP S/4HANA company codes are linked to cons units on a one-to-one basis.
X
C SAP S/4HANA companies are linked to cons units on a one-to-one basis.
X
D Sender Local Currency is relevant only for integrated cons units.
Correct. Cons Units represent legal subsidiaries. SAP S/4HANA companies are linked to
cons units on a one-to-one basis. Sender Local Currency is relevant only for integrated
cons units.
2. Which of the following describes versions?
Choose the correct answers.
X
A Version is also referred to as Category in other solutions.
X
B Version is used to determine group currency.
X
C Versions/special versions allow the ability to quickly consolidate data in different
ways without having to make redundant configuration.
X
D Special versions allows you to mix and match actual data with different versions of
consolidation objects.
Correct. Version is also referred to as Category in other solutions. Versions/special
versions allow the ability to quickly consolidate data in different ways without having to
make redundant configuration. Special versions allows you to mix and match actual data
with different versions of consolidation objects.
© Copyright. All rights reserved.
38
Unit 2: Learning Assessment - Answers
3. Which of the following describes breakdown categories and subitems?
Choose the correct answers.
X
A Breakdown categories (BDC) are used to control subitem and other sub
assignments for transactional data.
X
B Profit center is a type of subitem.
X
C Functional area is a type of subitem.
X
D Transaction type is a type of subitem.
Correct. Breakdown categories (BDC) are used to control subitem and other sub
assignments for transactional data. Functional area is a type of subitem. Transaction type
is a type of subitem.
4. Which of the following describes additional master data?
Choose the correct answers.
X
A Additional master data deals with field settings other than cons groups, cons units,
and FS items for example.
X
B You can enable dimensions to be available for input forms.
X
C You can change settings to meet your business requirements for group journal
fields and hierarchies.
X
D SAP S/4HANA Finance for group reporting can utilize SAP S/4HANA and non-SAP
S/4HANA master data very easily.
Correct. Additional master data deals with field settings other than cons groups, cons
units, and FS items. You can change settings to meet your business requirements for
group journal fields and hierarchies. SAP S/4HANA Finance for group reporting can utilize
SAP S/4HANA and non-SAP S/4HANA master data very easily.
© Copyright. All rights reserved.
39
UNIT 3
Data Preparation
Lesson 1
Describing Consolidation Tasks
41
Lesson 2
Acquiring Data
44
Lesson 3
Describing Document Types and Posting Levels
53
Lesson 4
Discussing Group Journals and Selected Items
56
Lesson 5
Explaining Currency Translation
60
UNIT OBJECTIVES
●
Discuss the Month-end Closing Process
●
Acquiring and Releasing Data
●
Discuss the upload reported financial data
●
Discuss Data Collection
●
Discuss document types and posting levels
●
Discuss Group Journals and Selected Items
●
Discuss Currency Translation
© Copyright. All rights reserved.
40
Unit 3
Lesson 1
Describing Consolidation Tasks
LESSON OBJECTIVES
After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
●
Discuss the Month-end Closing Process
The Month-End Closing Process
Figure 33: The Consolidation Process
Note:
In the preceding figure, all possible tasks are shown however not all are
necessarily required.
Regarding the Consolidation Process figure above, here are the key points:
●
●
Check master data: this includes FS items and mapping to g/l accounts, consolidation unit
method assignments, etc..
There are several types of IC (intercompany eliminations) … including:
-
Eliminate gross profit.
-
Eliminate other income and expense.
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41
Unit 3: Data Preparation
-
Eliminate balance sheet.
-
Eliminate dividends.
Consolidation
A complete consolidation process typically starts with preparatory steps, such as setting
global parameters, checking the master data of your organizational units and financial
statement (FS) items, and specifying exchange rates.
After that, you can proceed with collecting data reported by consolidation units, and
standardizing the data with features available in the Data Monitor. When the data is ready for
consolidation, go to the Consolidation Monitor to perform the consolidation tasks, such as
various interunit eliminations and data validation.
Data Validation:
Throughout the process, you can cross check your processed data using delivered/custom
reports in real time.
For more information about consolidation, see Consolidation.
Set Global Parameters
Before accessing the monitors, users should set their global parameters. These selections will
then act as defaults that are used as the month-end closing tasks are performed.
Figure 34: Global Parameters
Inputs to the following global parameter fields are required:
●
●
●
Version: Criteria or valuation methods configured for consolidating different sets of
financial data such as actuals or budget data according to different reporting needs.
Fiscal Year/Period: Select the time-frame for your closing activities.
Consolidation Chart of Accounts: A systematic grouping of financial statement (FS) items
that belong together and are used on the group reporting or consolidation level.
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42
Lesson: Describing Consolidation Tasks
Accessing the Monitors
●
●
Group Reporting uses two monitors:
-
Data Monitor: Local | Consolidation unit related tasks.
-
Consolidation Monitor: Group | Consolidation group related tasks.
The monitors are used to:
-
Open and close the period.
-
Provide process control.
-
Run and schedule month-end closing tasks.
-
Ensure a logical sequence and data consistency.
-
Provide a one-stop-shop | launchpad for all closing activities.
For more information about the features of the Data Monitor, see Features in the Data
Monitor.
Figure 35: Data Monitor with All Tasks Locked
Tasks can also be scheduled via the Scheduling app.
LESSON SUMMARY
You should now be able to:
●
Discuss the Month-end Closing Process
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43
Unit 3
Lesson 2
Acquiring Data
LESSON OBJECTIVES
After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
●
Acquiring and Releasing Data
●
Discuss the upload reported financial data
●
Discuss Data Collection
Acquire and Release Data
Data Acquisition in General
Figure 36: Data Acquisition Options
API - Application Programming Interface.
Data Release-Key Points
●
●
New postings in the central journal must be released to SAP S/4HANA Finance for group
reporting.
This is an important control mechanism that prevents unwanted data from becoming
available to group reporting.
The release process will only release an FI document number one time. The tracking
mechanism is based on a timestamp.
© Copyright. All rights reserved.
44
Lesson: Acquiring Data
Release Universal Journal
Figure 37: Release Data from the Universal Journal into Group Reporting
●
Release the data for the current period.
●
Release the new data | delta vs. the prior release for the current period.
●
Data from prior periods without release:
-
What is the unreleased data from prior periods which can cause inconsistency between
accounting and group reporting.
-
This could be used to identify prior period restatement entries.
-
To be able to use this data, it must be released in the period that it was posted.
Data Release from ACDOCA to ACDOCU
Documents posted to the universal journal up to when you release the journal are considered
for consolidation.
You can release the universal journal multiple times in the current period.
For more information about consolidation planning, follow this link: https://help.sap.com/
viewer/DRAFT/4ebf1502064b406c964b0911adfb3f01/2021.000/en-US/
6817703d2d4241f98e078b0bec858079.html
© Copyright. All rights reserved.
45
Unit 3: Data Preparation
Figure 38: Data Release from ACDOCA to ACDOCU
Data is replicated when it is released.
Releasing Data
1. Go to the SAP Fiori Launchpad.
2. In the Journal Entries group, open the Post General Journal Entries app.
3. Post an entry in 12/2021 for TA00: Dr. 10010000 125,000 Cr. 31000000 125,000.
4. In the Consolidation Data Preparation group, open the Data Monitor app.
The period is already open.
5. Release the universal journal data for TA00.
The G/L account 10010000 was released to group reporting with FS Item 111100, for example
based on its mapping. The TA00 company's data was released to consolidation unit TA00 as
well.
Note:
The data release task can be scheduled via the Schedule Jobs for Consolidation
Tasks app.
Upload Reported Financial Data
Upload Financial Data - Key Points
●
Flat file imports are a quick and easy way to access non-SAP S/4HANA or test data.
●
You have several options with flexible upload:
-
Import periodic or YTD data.
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46
Lesson: Acquiring Data
-
Import one or multiple periods.
-
Import one or multiple consolidation units.
-
Update mode options for importing updated source files.
Figure 39: Flex Upload File
The source file for the class does not include annual net income or current year retained
earnings. Therefore, the calculate net income task should be run after the import.
SAP 2659672 contains a standard template. For more information, see https://
launchpad.support.sap.com/#/notes/2659672
Flexible Upload Log
Figure 40: Flexible Upload Log
The log is interactive by clicking on blue hyperlinks or using the search features. The search
features let you filter the log to a particular cons unit or cons group. You can change the
display of the log format using the settings option. Clicking on a hyperlink will take you to the
© Copyright. All rights reserved.
47
Unit 3: Data Preparation
group journal entry in ACDOCU that represents the amount where you can look at additional
detail (reported financial data on PL00 is assigned document numbers since it is stored in
ACDOCU).
Logs can also be exported to Excel for analysis. The numbers next to the cons unit / cons
group represent the number of messages in the log related to that cons unit / cons group.
Messages can be informational, warnings, or errors and are helpful in diagnosing root cause
issues with the data if needed.
Upload Reported Financial Data
1. Go to the SAP Fiori Launchpad.
2. In the Consolidation Data Preparation group, open the Data Monitor app.
The period is already open.
3. Run Data Collection for the U00_2021_12_Local_PL_BS_All_CUs.csv file.
4. Run the Calc Net Income task.
5. In the Group Reports group, open the Group Data Analysis - Design Studio (decpricated)
app with the default selections.
6. Set up the report as follows:
a) In the rows, only include FS Item w/ the BS/PL hierarchy expanded.
a) In the columns, only include cons unit and the LC measure.
Data Collection
In SAP S/4HANA Finance for group reporting, the Group Reporting Data Collection (GRDC)
apps replace all kinds of spreadsheet and email driven processes, hence covering data
collection and mapping scenarios for financial consolidation, statutory reporting, budgeting
and forecasting, margin controlling, risk management, strategy management, tax filing and
reporting.
The app is hosted on the SAP Cloud Platform and relies on data such as master data and
allowed breakdowns from SAP S/4HANA.
For more information, see SAP Group Reporting Data Collection .
© Copyright. All rights reserved.
48
Lesson: Acquiring Data
Figure 41: Group Reporting Components with Data Collection
GRDC - SAP Group Reporting Data Collection:
●
●
●
●
Developed in SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP) and integrated with S/4HANA
Group Reporting cloud and on-premise versions.
Collect consolidation data from both SAP S/4HANA and non-SAP S/4HANA companies.
Complement your data collection process via manual data collection and data mapping
capabilities.
The release schedule is bi-weekly.
SAP Group Reporting Data Collection (GRDC) is the set of apps in S/4HANA Finance for
group reporting that are designed for:
●
●
The decentralized manual collection of heterogeneous and supplemental data along
corporate structures.
The transformation and load of data in ACDOCU either from an external ERP system or
from the ACDOCA table.
GRDC includes 2 main feature sets:
1. Manual data collection.
2. Data mapping (i.e. ETL - Extraction Transformation and Loading).
For more information, see Group Reporting Data Collection.
© Copyright. All rights reserved.
49
Unit 3: Data Preparation
Figure 42: GRDC Cloud Platform
For more information, see GRDC integration with S/4HANA Group Reporting on premise .
For more information, see : GRDC integration with S/4HANA Group Reporting cloud .
Data Mapping Architecture
Figure 43: Data Mapping Architecture
Sources include accounting (ACDOCA) and CSV files from any system.
The mapping definitions are uploaded from Microsoft Excel.
Transformed data is loaded in the consolidation table (ACDOCU).
© Copyright. All rights reserved.
50
Lesson: Acquiring Data
Input Form
Figure 44: Input Form
Manually collect financial and non-financial data as well as notes directly in Group Reporting
(ACDOCU table). One entry point for non-SAP S/4HANA data required for group closing. SAP
Group Reporting Data Collection supports collection, validation, aggregation and reporting of
heterogeneous and supplemental data for corporate reporting.
Manage data points - Non financial notes can be entered for consolidation example:
headcount and other accounting notes. Three fields are added in ACDOCU table to manage
data points:
●
ADHOCITEM
●
ADHOCSET
●
ADHOCSETITEM
Group Reporting and Data Collection supports:
●
GRDC supports comments to provide context for financial statements. Up to
10,000characters are available.
●
Input forms include formulas and conditional formatting.
●
A traceability log is now available.
●
ECC imports with data mapping via a file-based interface is now available.
●
The new update modes include delete all, overwrite, periodic, and year to date.
●
There is a new G/L Account Line Items-Read(A2X) API to improve mapping with ACDOCA
by including more fields.
●
You can schedule file (in a cloud location) imports as a background job.
●
Custom ACDOCA fields are now available in a mapping template file.
© Copyright. All rights reserved.
51
Unit 3: Data Preparation
●
The new form designer for manual data collection is easier, simpler, and more flexible.
LESSON SUMMARY
You should now be able to:
●
Acquiring and Releasing Data
●
Discuss the upload reported financial data
●
Discuss Data Collection
© Copyright. All rights reserved.
52
Unit 3
Lesson 3
Describing Document Types and Posting
Levels
LESSON OBJECTIVES
After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
●
Discuss document types and posting levels
Document Types and Posting Levels
Posting Levels | Document Types - Key Points
●
Posting levels and document types provide the ultimate audit trail.
●
Posting levels display origin of data in your consolidation reports.
●
Document types are more detailed than posting levels and are used to determine
document numbers which capture posting dates, users, and so forth.
Figure 45: Fundamentals - Posting Levels and Document Types
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53
Unit 3: Data Preparation
Data Monitor Concept
Figure 46: Data Monitor Concept
For more information about the Data Monitor, see https://help.sap.com/viewer/DRAFT/
4ebf1502064b406c964b0911adfb3f01/2021.000/en-US/
7f023b8f3d00435b8973c5ba49b46e9f.html .
Figure 47: Consolidation Monitor Concept
COI - Consolidation of Investments.
For more information, see https://help.sap.com/viewer/DRAFT/
4ebf1502064b406c964b0911adfb3f01/2021.000/en-US/
4cd20a30dd35426a9a15e3e91d61acc4.html.
The one-sided elimination concept refers to the practice of booking elimination debit and
credit entries based on the seller's revenue for example. The two-sided concept refers to the
practice of booking elimination debit and credit entries based on the seller's receivable and
the buyer's payable for example.
Document Types Key Points
●
Document types identify the type and source of data. For example, reported data is stored
on different document types than elimination data.
© Copyright. All rights reserved.
54
Lesson: Describing Document Types and Posting Levels
●
Document types are used in various consolidation settings, tasks, and reports.
●
The system creates documents for all data records in the system.
●
Document types are off-the-shelf and you can create your own.
●
Document types are assigned to document number ranges.
LESSON SUMMARY
You should now be able to:
●
Discuss document types and posting levels
© Copyright. All rights reserved.
55
Unit 3
Lesson 4
Discussing Group Journals and Selected Items
LESSON OBJECTIVES
After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
●
Discuss Group Journals and Selected Items
Group Journals and Selected Items
Group Journal Entries Key Points
●
Group journal entries are the consolidation-specific journal entries used to correct,
standardize, or consolidate reported financial data to the requirements of the group.
●
In the posting, you use different document types to fulfill these purposes.
●
Group journal entries are typically used to:
-
-
Book one-time standardizing adjustments in posting level 10 to meet group accounting
standards.
Record group share data (posting level 30).
●
Group journal entries can be uploaded via the Import Journal Entries app.
●
Use Validation & Substitution rules to ensure data integrity.
Figure 48: Group Journal Entries Access
© Copyright. All rights reserved.
56
Lesson: Discussing Group Journals and Selected Items
Display Group Journal Entries: With this app, you can display line items of posting documents
without any reporting logic.
●
●
Consolidation Unit, Profit Center and Segment hierarchies are not required.
The Consolidation Unit, Profit Center, and Segment elimination entities are not included in
the output.
Display Group Journal Entries with Reporting Logic: With this app, you can display line items of
posting documents with reporting logic (introduced for on-premise as of 1909) applied.
●
●
●
Consolidation Unit, Profit Center and Segment hierarchies are required.
The Consolidation Unit, Profit Center, and Segment elimination entities are included in the
output.
The report logic is used to dynamically display elimination entity values by applying the
first-common-parent concept to hierarchies selected at run-time.
For more information about Import Group Journal Entries, see Import Group Journal Entries.
Figure 49: Post Group Journal App
You can reverse individual journal entries by selecting the journal to be reversed and choosing
Reverse. The system reverses the journal entry and updates the records in the database.
You can also reverse multiple journal entries (also called documents) in the Mass Reversal
app. While doing so, you select and reverse manually posted documents by various criteria,
for example, by organizational unit, version, time, task, or subassignment.
Selected Items
●
●
●
Selected items are default items used to keep the income statement and balance sheet in
balance.
Selected items automatically generate balancing line items when triggered.
The trigger can be manual or automatically generated line items that affect the income
statement and balance sheet at the same time.
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57
Unit 3: Data Preparation
Figure 50: Group Journal Entries Using Selected Items
●
●
The system automatically populated the sub category and subitem based on the Define
Default Values for Subassignments in Customizing.
Since the debit is on a balance sheet FS item and the credit is on an income statement FS
item, the system automatically generates offsetting line items (3 and 4) for balancing
purposes.
In order to increase efficiency in your manual journal posting in situations where the same
group-dependent manual journal should be valid in multiple consolidation groups, as of 2108
you can create manual journals with multiple consolidation groups.
For every selected consolidation group, separate documents are posted. To track these
documents, the system assigns a document bundle number to every group journal entry,
which posts to multiple consolidation groups. You can use the document bundle number for
the reversal process, and you can also filter the document bundle number in the Post Group
Journal Entries app and in the Display Group Journal Entries app. This allows you to search for
the corresponding bundle based on this number.
You can use app. “Compare Group Journal Entries” (delivered in release 2105) along with the
new enhancements on posting PL30 JEs for cons. groups to ensure group JEs are posted to
all relevant consolidation groups correctly.
Group Journals and Selected Items
1. Go to the SAP Fiori Launchpad.
2. In the Consolidation Data Preparation group, open the Post Group Journal Entries app.
3. In the header, select the 01 document type and TA00.
4. In the line items enter 5,000 for 131500 and -5,000 for 585000. When you press enter,
the automatic line items are generated to keep the PL in balance with the BS. Post the
entry.
5. Enter a profit center to the BS line item (validation is turned on).
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Lesson: Discussing Group Journals and Selected Items
6. In the Consolidation Data Preparation group, open the Display Group Journal Entries app.
Search for U00 and doc type 01.
7. Go to the details via the blue hyperlink for Line Item for the 317000 line item (most likely
000003). The Autom. Indicator field's value should be 1 (in Reference Data).
LESSON SUMMARY
You should now be able to:
●
Discuss Group Journals and Selected Items
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59
Unit 3
Lesson 5
Explaining Currency Translation
LESSON OBJECTIVES
After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
●
Discuss Currency Translation
Currency Translation Concepts
Key points regarding the concept of currency translation:
●
●
In some cases, customers are performing currency translation for non-historic balance
sheet accounts into group currency in SAP S/4HANA Finance (ACDOCA table). In this
case, the data can be released into group reporting without any translation.
From a traditional currency translation perspective:
-
-
●
●
All entities send their trial balances to corporate at month end.
Currency translation coverts local currency values into group currency values when
appropriate.
Average and ending exchange rate are applied to different types of accounts:
-
Profit and Loss items at average.
-
Balance sheet at ending / closing.
Currency translation adjustments (CTA) are normally handled in two ways:
-
-
Post to original FS Items for non-historic items.
Post to separate FS Items such as Currency Translation Adjustment (CTA) for historic
and income related.
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60
Lesson: Explaining Currency Translation
Figure 51: Currency Translation Example
Currency Translation
●
●
●
Existing source system group currency values can be used by group reporting without any
re-translation.
CTA (currency translation adjustment) for non-historic items is posted to the original
items with a unique CTA transaction type.
CTA for historic and income related items is posted to CTA FS Items with a unique CTA
transaction type.
●
Exchange rates are stored in the traditional transaction currency tables.
●
Group reporting currency translation is a flexible / adaptable solution.
Import Foreign Exchange Rates:
For more information, see Import Foreign Exchange Rates .
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Unit 3: Data Preparation
Figure 52: Currency Translation Log
Note:
You can right click on a column in the log such as FS Item and choose the Group
option to create subtotals. Multiple grouping columns are available as well.
Note:
CT = currency translation key. This is determined in the currency translation
method.
●
1 – Translation of cumulative local values at rate for current period.
●
5 – Translation of each period at applicable rate for the period.
Currency Translation
Run currency translation to translate the currency of financial statements from the local
currency (LC) into the group currency (GC) so that the financial statements from local
companies can be included in group consolidation.
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62
Lesson: Explaining Currency Translation
Figure 53: Currency Translation - Sample Report
Consolidation with Multiple Group Currencies
Figure 54: Multiple Group Currencies - Goal
Figure 55: Multiple Group Currencies - Type Comparison
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63
Unit 3: Data Preparation
As of the 2011 release, there is increased consolidation efficiency and automation when
working with multiple group currencies or multiple currency translations, for example, for
translation at constant currency rates for comparison reporting.
You can generate multiple group currencies in a single closing process, and:
●
●
●
Configure multiple extension versions to the main standard version, which can each carry
an additional group currency or additional translation
Produce these multiple group currencies or translations in a single closing process while
processing the standard version in the data and consolidation monitor, with no need to
copy reported data across versions
Allow posting of manual journals in several group currencies at the same time, keeping the
multiple group currency values in columns with the same bundled journal entry
You can use new version types to consolidate simultaneously in multiple group currencies,
and/or using different translations:
●
●
●
Standard version stores all currencies (local currency LC, transaction currency TC, group
currency GC), and quantities Qty
Global currency (GC) extension version stores additional group currencies (group
currency)
Extension version stores group currencies with different translations (delta amounts)
The reference version defines the “base” version. The standard version drives the process:
task execution, task status, and task logs. The standard versions, and the related GC
extension versions can use different exchange rates / currency translation methods.
When the local currency of the consolidation unit is the same as the group currency of a GC
extension version, the local currency values are copied to the group currency values in this
version by executing the currency translation task
When you post a journal entry in a standard version, you can select the extension version(s)
you also want to post to. Columns are added to post group currency values in extension
versions, and a document is created in each version with a unique bundle document number.
This number can be used as a filter or sort criteria. When you copy or reverse bundled
documents, all documents with the same document bundle number are also copied or
reversed.
Consolidation with Multiple Group Currencies - Reporting
You can select multiple versions in the filter bar.
For extension versions (eg EUR@Budget rate) the values are aggregated: amounts from the
reference version Z10 + delta amounts of the extension version Z12.
You can drill down using the Consolidation Version Element to analyze the details of the
totalled amount of the extension version. For example, run the data analysis app →Select
versions U##, V##, X## →In the report result, right click on an FS Item →Filter →Drilldown →
Consolidation Version Element →All three versions appear in the columns.
Currency Translation
1. Go to the SAP Fiori Launchpad.
2. In the Consolidation Data Preparation group, open the Data Monitor app.
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64
Lesson: Explaining Currency Translation
3. Run the Currency Translation task for all consolidation units.
a) Highlight the intersection of CG00W and the Curr Trans. field.
b) Right click and choose Update.
The Task Log opens. (The US values have been translated with the reference rate of
1.3.) Only the US and CA consolidation units have logs.
4. Near the upper right of the window, display the log header messages. If you have no errors,
proceed.
5. Select US00.
6. Right click on the subitems column and choose Sort Ascending.
7. In settings, display only the following columns:
Columns
Translation Method
Sequence
FS Item
Subitem
CT key
Exchange Rate
LC Amount
GC Amount
Translation Difference
Reference Amount
a) On the right, choose Settings
.
b) In the columns, select the provided fields.
c) Choose OK.
8. On the right, maximize the log icon (
).
9. Right click on the FS Item column and choose Group.
The entries for every FS Item are grouped.
10. Expand FS Item 161100. The Reference Amount is based on the current period closing rate
of 1,3 (USD to EUR).
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65
Unit 3: Data Preparation
LESSON SUMMARY
You should now be able to:
●
Discuss Currency Translation
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66
Unit 3
Learning Assessment
1. Which of the following describes consolidation tasks?
Choose the correct answers.
X
A Manual postings can be used for posting levels 10, 20, and 30.
X
B Bundling is not allowed.
X
C Tasks can be scheduled.
X
D Global parameters are used to set the data region when using the data and
consolidation monitors.
2. Which of the following describes the flexible upload for reported financial data?
Choose the correct answers.
X
A You can import periodic or YTD data.
X
B You can perform transformations during the upload.
X
C Import one or multiple periods.
X
D Flex upload is available for SAP S/4HANA companies if needed.
3. Which of the following describes the release of SAP S/4HANA data?
Choose the correct answers.
X
A This is an important control mechanism that prevents unwanted data from
becoming available to group reporting.
X
B The company code must be a consolidation unit.
X
C You must assign the data transfer method. Read from Universal Document to the
consolidation unit.
X
D G/L accounts must be mapped to FS items.
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Unit 3: Learning Assessment
4. Which of the following describes document types and posting levels?
Choose the correct answers.
X
A You can use posting levels for internal consistency checks of the data.
X
B You can create your own posting levels.
X
C You can use posting levels for the selection of data to be processed.
X
D You can create your own document types.
5. Which of the following describes group journal entries, document types, and selected
items?
Choose the correct answers.
X
A Group journal entries only affect ACDOCU.
X
B Group journal entries only affect ACDOCC.
X
C Group journal entries are consolidation-specific journal entries used to correct,
standardize, or consolidate reported financial data to the requirements of the group.
X
D Group journal entries can use many document types.
6. Which of the following describes currency translation?
Choose the correct answers.
X
A CTA (currency translation adjustment) for historic and income related items is
posted to CTA FS items with a unique CTA transaction type.
X
B Exchange rates are stored in the rate model.
X
C If there are already source system group currency values, they can be used by
group reporting without any re-translation.
X
D CTA for non-historic items is posted to the original items but with a unique CTA
transaction type.
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68
Unit 3
Learning Assessment - Answers
1. Which of the following describes consolidation tasks?
Choose the correct answers.
X
A Manual postings can be used for posting levels 10, 20, and 30.
X
B Bundling is not allowed.
X
C Tasks can be scheduled.
X
D Global parameters are used to set the data region when using the data and
consolidation monitors.
Correct. Manual postings can be used for posting levels 10, 20, and 30. Bundling is
allowed. Tasks can be scheduled. Global parameters are used to set the data region when
using the data and consolidation monitors.
2. Which of the following describes the flexible upload for reported financial data?
Choose the correct answers.
X
A You can import periodic or YTD data.
X
B You can perform transformations during the upload.
X
C Import one or multiple periods.
X
D Flex upload is available for SAP S/4HANA companies if needed.
Correct. You can import periodic or YTD data. Import one or multiple periods. Flex upload
is available for SAP S/4HANA companies if needed.
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69
UNIT 4
Consolidations and
Eliminations
Lesson 1
Reviewing Intercompany Matching and Reconciliation
73
Lesson 2
Discussing Intercompany and Matrix Eliminations
79
Lesson 3
Describing Rule Based Consolidation of Investments
89
Lesson 4
Explaining Activity Based Purchase & Equity Method
97
UNIT OBJECTIVES
●
Review Intercompany Matching and Reconciliation
●
Explain Intercompany Eliminations
●
Describe Matrix Eliminations
●
Describe Consolidation of Investment Concepts
●
Explain Purchase Method Investment Eliminations
●
Describe Purchase Method Capital Eliminations
●
Discuss Equity Pick Up
●
Explain Activity Based Purchase & Equity Method
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Unit 4
Lesson 1
Reviewing Intercompany Matching and
Reconciliation
LESSON OBJECTIVES
After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
●
Review Intercompany Matching and Reconciliation
Intercompany Matching and Reconciliation Overview
The Need for Intercompany Matching and Reconciliation
Companies face a long list of challenges in a global economy with a significant increase in the
number of mergers and acquisitions. The most common one is a lack of transparency
between the legal entities and subsidiaries therefore making it more challenging to reconcile
intercompany transactions between the legal entities and subsidiaries in a cost efficient
manner which causes a significant delay in closing the books.
Figure 56: The Need for Intercompany Matching and Reconciliation
The Intercompany Matching & Reconciliation Functionality supports users by allowing early
analysis in the closing process to avoid intercompany differences and reduces delays when
closing the books.
Intercompany Matching and Reconciliation Features
●
●
Transactional-level matching and real-time reconciliation.
Flexible modeling based on various organizational dimensions, such as company, profit
center, and consolidation unit.
●
Automatic discrepancy resolution.
●
In-app communication and workflow.
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Unit 4: Consolidations and Eliminations
●
●
Integrated with intercompany eliminations.
For more information, see https://help.sap.com/viewer/DRAFT/
4ebf1502064b406c964b0911adfb3f01/2021.000/en-US/
a8172f85383947bd8538bf778e771874.html .
Matching is designed for directly accessing the source data, for example, the Universal
Journal Entries (or external data). In this way, the ETL processes can be eliminated.
Noticeably, the matching logic is executed in SAP HANA, which allows massive amounts of
data to be processed within minutes.
The following link is a video showing how to use the ICR solution, from running document
matching, checking matching results, making and approving adjustment postings, to viewing
reconciliation reports and drilling through to their matching items and original documents
(English only): Features
Intercompany Matching and Reconciliation (ICMR) is introduced to speed up your
intercompany reconciliation process from company close to corporate close. As a built-in
solution in SAP S/4HANA, it matches transactions without any ETL (extract, transform, load)
processes and reconciles your financial data in real time.
By defining flexible matching and reconciliation rules, you can achieve high degrees of
automation and continuous accounting. In addition, its in-app communication and workflow
features eliminate the latencies very often seen in dealing with intercompany discrepancies,
and, at the same time, improves visibility and transparency of your reconciliation process.
For more information, see Quick Start.
Based on your defined reconciliation case, which aggregates amounts of your selected data
sets, you can view the reconciliation status and balance details between companies or
between other organizational units.
With the matching engine, intercompany document items can be auto-matched line by line.
Matching rules can be defined flexibly, for both exact-match, suggested, or exceptionalmatch patterns. You can trigger matching runs either directly from the SAP Fiori apps or by
scheduling recurring background jobs. Upon completion of a matching run, you can check the
matching results and process the discrepancies by executing workflows and autoadjustments.
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74
Lesson: Reviewing Intercompany Matching and Reconciliation
Process Overview
Figure 57: The Reconciliation Process
For perfectly matched and still with variances, reason codes are be provided to facilitate
future analysis and explanations. Reason codes can be reported along with the balance sheet
and income statement data. In addition, the recommended solutions can be attached to the
assignment documents to increase efficiency and achieve automatic resolution.
Matching
For the continuous incoming documents from the underlying data sources, you can launch
the matching run individually or via background jobs. Matching populates the ICADOCM table.
Manage Assignments - By Reconciliation Case
From each data row of any trading unit pair within the Reconciliation Balances app, you can
navigate to the Manage Assignments - By Reconciliation Case app, where you can view the
matched items and manually assign the items that are not matched yet.
Figure 58: Manage Assignments by Reconciliation Case
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75
Unit 4: Consolidations and Eliminations
For more information, see Manage Assignments
Reconciliation Status Overview
With this app, you can monitor the line item-level matching status and aggregation-level
reconciliation status for your specified reconciliation case, fiscal year/period, and
organizational units.
For more information, see Reconciliation Status Overview
Figure 59: Reconciliation Status Overview
Manage the Reconciliation Close
Manage the Reconciliation Close Process
With the Manage the Reconciliation Close app, you can set reconciliation close status, view
reconciliation differences by reason code, trigger approval workflow for reconciliation close,
and generate reconciliation statements for your specified unit pairs and period.
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76
Lesson: Reviewing Intercompany Matching and Reconciliation
Figure 60: Manage the Reconciliation Close Process
In the preceding figure, the elimination status is Completed since the elimination was run in
the consolidation monitor.
When closing the reconciliation, any variances above the tolerance generate an approval
workflow to users based on the reconciliation team members. In the resulting inbox, the
trading partner data is displayed. The user can then approve or reject the approval request.
They can also download a pdf with the summary.
In order to use workflow, see the prerequisites in the following link: https://wiki.wdf.sap.corp/
wiki/display/ICA/Configurations+for+Recon+Close+Request
Note:
Workflow also requires:
●
●
Reconciliation Team - use the Manage Teams and Responsibility app to
maintain a team with a Reconciliation Close Request for Consolidation
(ICAMT_RCC) type.
Workflow - use the Manage Workflow app to maintain a workflow with two
steps:
-
Approve Reconciliation Close Request
-
Confirm Reconciliation Close Request
Workflow Status: This status is relevant for the reconciliation cases that require an approval
workflow to close reconciliation. The possible workflow statuses are Waiting, Ready, In
Process, Error, and Completed. Only when the workflow is completed, that is, the
reconciliation close request is approved, can the reconciliation close status be set to Closed.
Elimination Status: The execution status of consolidation monitor task "IC Balance Sheet
Elimination". It's only relevant for the reconciliation case that is consolidation related and is
assigned with the elimination method SC001 in configuration step Define Elimination
Methods. The following statuses are possible:
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77
Unit 4: Consolidations and Eliminations
●
Initial: The elimination task hasn't been executed yet.
●
In Process: The elimination task is initiated and running.
●
Completed: The elimination task has finished successfully.
●
●
Failed: The elimination task ran into an error, for example, due to system error or
misconfiguration. The error details can be viewed in the Task Logs app.
Outdated: The elimination task was once executed and finished successfully, but after
that, a new matching run was triggered and brought new posting data, which makes the
prior Completed status outdated. Therefore, the elimination task needs to be executed
again.
For more information on the Manage Reconciliation Close app, use the following link: https://
help.sap.com/viewer/4ebf1502064b406c964b0911adfb3f01/2020.000/en-US/
26167a064a84434589dd9e997a2204e7.html
Intercompany Matching and Reconciliation Overview
Matching has already be run and now you want to see the differences and close the pairs
under the limit.
1. Go to the Fiori Launchpad.
2. On the upper right, select More Groups and choose Intercompany Reconciliation
Operation.
3. Open the Manage Reconciliation Close tile.
4. Use these selections: U00RC | 012.2021| Y1 | U00. Choose Go.
US and CA are over the limit so their difference is in red.
5. Select all and choose Close. When prompted choose Yes.
US and CA are pending approval.
6. Choose Go again.
The workflow status is In Process.
7. Go into the Details and download the PDF to see the output.
After a follow-up, the team lead will approve the item. The Elimination hasn't been run yet.
LESSON SUMMARY
You should now be able to:
●
Review Intercompany Matching and Reconciliation
© Copyright. All rights reserved.
78
Unit 4
Lesson 2
Discussing Intercompany and Matrix
Eliminations
LESSON OBJECTIVES
After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
●
Explain Intercompany Eliminations
●
Describe Matrix Eliminations
Accounts Payable and Receivable Elimination
Intercompany Eliminations Key Points
Figure 61: The Consolidation Process - Eliminations
●
●
Objective: Eliminate any transactions between the consolidation units so that only
transactions with 3rd parties remain.
The following is a list of some of the intercompany activities that require elimination:
-
Intercompany accounts payable and accounts receivable.
-
Intercompany loans and interest.
-
Intercompany revenue and cost of goods sold.
-
Intercompany dividends.
-
Intercompany profit in inventory and fixed asset transfers.
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Unit 4: Consolidations and Eliminations
Intercompany elimination utilizes as its source data the reported data in group currency.
Intercompany data reported by both entities (two-sided elimination) is used to trigger the
elimination.
Intercompany elimination does not require specific intercompany accounts because the
internal criteria used is based in part on the partner consolidation unit dimension.
Payable and Receivable Intercompany Elimination Example
This is an example of a two-sided elimination since there is a trading partner on both sides of
the transaction. Both sides are matched up and the difference is charged to the offset FS
item.
Figure 62: Intercompany AR AP Log
ICMR Elimination Posting Results
Figure 63: ICMR Elimination Posting Results
●
Posting level 00 contains the original incoming data.
●
Posting level 20 contains the eliminations.
●
Reason code Z98 is assigned to the transaction difference.
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80
Lesson: Discussing Intercompany and Matrix Eliminations
●
The TA## AR is 23,625. The US## AP is -30,712.50 for a total difference of -7,087.50.
-
-
The transaction difference is: -5,395.00
■
Subitem 915: -1495
■
Subitem 900: -3900
The translation difference is: -1,692.50
Figure 64: ICMR Elimination Posting Document
Accounts Payable and Receivable Elimination
1. Go to the SAP Fiori Launchpad.
2. Go to the Consolidation Process tab.
3. Open the Consolidation Monitor tile.
4. Run the Intercompany Balance Sheet task.
a) Highlight 2042 IC Elim Balance Sheet.
b) On the upper left, choose Update Run.
The Log opens. The elimination was successful.
5. Go back to the Manage Reconciliation Close app.
The Elimination Status is now Completed.
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Unit 4: Consolidations and Eliminations
Profit on Inventory Elimination
Figure 65: Profit on Inventory Elimination - Concept
When goods are sold within the group, and are still in the inventory, the margin must be
eliminated. As of release 2108, you can automate the internal profit in inventory elimination.
This feature helps deliver greater efficiency, reduces manual work, and provides better
transparency and auditability of elimination of profit in inventory, and other eliminations that
require similar rule capabilities. The consolidation rule can:
●
Read a percentage from a partner
●
Break down the percentage selection by additional dimensions (such as product)
●
●
Assign the retrieved percentages to the selected reported data of the trigger by partner
and breakdown dimension value
Multiply the assignment
Figure 66: Profit on Inventory Elimination - Result
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82
Lesson: Discussing Intercompany and Matrix Eliminations
Note:
The statistical FS Item IPI_GV_M is being in the course scenario to store the
inventory value of the buyer. The actual inventory FS Item is 131200.
In the course scenario, the inventory values and profit %'s are in the file:
U00_2021_12_Local_PL_BS_All_CUs.csv. For example, in the first line below, the seller if FR00,
the buyer is SW00, the IPI_Rate (profit %) is 10%, and the material is P680-110. In the second
line below, the statistical inventory value in IPI_GV_M IS 10,000. In this example, the
statistical value is the same as in line 3 where item 131200 has a value of 10,000.
2;Y1;Y1;U00;2021;12;FR00;IPI_Rate;;;SW00;A000;PRC;P680-110;10;;;;;;;;YC
OA;
2;Y1;Y1;U00;2021;12;SW00;IPI_GV_M;;;FR00;A000;;P680-110;;10000;;EUR;;;;
;YCOA;
2;Y1;Y1;U00;2021;12;SW00;131200;1;915;;A000;;P680-110;;10000;;EUR;;;;;Y
COA;
2;Y1;Y1;U00;2021;12;SW00;111100;1;915;;A000;;P680-110;;-10000;;EUR;;;;;
YCOA;
2;Y1;Y1;U00;2021;12;CA00;IPI_Rate;;;US00;A000;PRC;P680-110;20;;;;;;;;YC
OA;
2;Y1;Y1;U00;2021;12;US00;IPI_GV_M;;;CA00;A000;;P680-110;;10000;;USD;;;;
;YCOA;
2;Y1;Y1;U00;2021;12;US00;131200;1;915;;A000;;P680-110;;10000;;USD;;;;;Y
COA;
2;Y1;Y1;U00;2021;12;US00;111100;1;915;;A000;;P680-110;;-10000;;USD;;;;;
YCOA;
Elimination of internal profit in inventory affects the net income. Therefore, those elimination
entries must be included in the calculation base for the consolidation of investments. To
achieve this, the following actions are needed:
Table 2:
Content Version
Activity Based
Rule Based
Content delivered with 2108
No action needed.
No action needed.
Content delivered before
2108
Open an incident with comNo action needed.
ponent FIN-CS-COR-COI to
adjust the calculation base to
include posting level 20
The How-To Start Up Interunit Elimination of Profit in Inventory (IPI) can be found in the
attachments for the following note: https://launchpad.support.sap.com/#/notes/2659656
Matrix Consolidation
Management Consolidation Concepts
●
The term matrix consolidation refers to the concept of preparing two views of consolidated
data simultaneously:
1. Legal consolidation:
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83
Unit 4: Consolidations and Eliminations
-
External and Legal and Statutory focus. For example financial statements for the
Securities and Exchange Commission.
-
Main entity is the legal subsidiary. For example company code.
-
Intercompany eliminations.
2. Management consolidation:
●
-
Internal focus. For example plan versus actual reports for management.
-
Main entity is the line of business. For example profit center and segment.
-
Intracompany eliminations.
Key Features:
-
-
-
-
-
Matrix Consolidation: one version of the truth for statutory and management
consolidation.
The same financial data can be reported by consolidation unit, profit center, and
segment.
Use multiple (alternative) hierarchies.
Run reports with consolidation units for a contribution view or elimination entities for a
consolidation view for example.
Elimination entities are dynamically determined via the first common parent in a
hierarchy node. Three are available:
■
Consolidation Unit Eliminated.
■
Profit center Eliminated.
■
Segment Eliminated.
First Common Parent Concept
Figure 67: First Common Parent Concept
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84
Lesson: Discussing Intercompany and Matrix Eliminations
Based on the hierarchies of consolidation units, profit centers, and segments​, you can display
the data for these organizational units eliminated and consolidated hierarchically.
In the hierarchy view, each enabled hierarchy has a virtual dimension with the suffix
Eliminated in the name at report runtime to provide elimination values at posting level 20 or
22 (Two-sided elimination entry).
Along the relevant hierarchies, a virtual elimination member is automatically generated
directly under each hierarchy node.
Figure 68: Intercompany Revenue and Cost Elimination Log
Revenue by Consolidation Unit with Legal Hierarchy
Figure 69: Revenue by Consolidation Unit with Legal Hierarchy
When analyzing legal entity data, you can use either the consolidation unit dimension for a
contribution view or the elimination consolidation unit dimension for a consolidation view.
Requirement: the relevant consolidation unit hierarchy is selected via the report prompts.
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Unit 4: Consolidations and Eliminations
Figure 70: Revenue by Profit Center with LOB Hierarchy
When analyzing management entity data, you can use either the profit center dimension for a
contribution view or the elimination profit center dimension for a consolidated view. You are
required to select the relevant profit center hierarchy using the report prompts.
Also, segment and partner segment can be used for evaluation of management consolidation
data.
Matrix Consolidation
1. Go to the Fiori Launchpad.
2. Go to the Group Reports tab.
3. Select the Group Data Analysis - Design Studio (deprecated) tile.
4. Make the following selections:
Field
Selection
Version
U## (U## Actuals)
Consolidation COA
Y1 (Consolidation Chart of Accounts)
Fiscal Year Period
012.2021
Period Mode
PER (Periodic)
Hierarchy Valid On
31.12.2021
Consolidation Group
CG##W
Consolidation Unit Hierarchy
U00_LEGAL
Consolidation Unit
Profit Center Hierarchy
U00_LOB
Profit Center
Segment Hierarchy
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$
86
Lesson: Discussing Intercompany and Matrix Eliminations
Field
Selection
FS Item
411100
...
5. Choose OK.
6. Perform the following steps:
Note:
Where needed, use the context menu (right click) to make the adjustments
below. When you access the context menu, you may need to right click on a
member id instead of the dimension name for example.
●
Right click on FS Item in the Rows. Choose Display→ Key.
●
Choose Pause.
●
Remove all dimensions from the columns except for Measures.
●
Drag FS Item into the columns under Measures.
●
Remove all dimensions from the rows except for Consolidation Unit.
●
Right click on Consolidation Unit in the rows Hierarchy → Select Hierarchy → Select
U## Legal Hier [U##_LEGAL] → OK.
●
Choose Refresh.
●
Right click on U##_LEGAL and choose Hierarchy → Expand All.
●
●
Highlight GC Amount. Right click and choose: Number Format. Make the following
settings and choose OK.
Format type
Setting
Scaling Factor
1000
Decimal Places
1
Display Scaling Factor in the Header for All Measures
Each consolidation unit displays only external revenue. (See the figure: Revenue by
Consolidation Unit with Legal Hierarchy that follows.)
7. Add Document Type to the columns … under FS Item.
Incoming total revenue is displayed under doc type 00 and the internal revenue
eliminations are displayed under doc type 2E.
8. Make the following changes:
●
Choose Pause.
●
Remove Document Type from the columns.
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Unit 4: Consolidations and Eliminations
●
Replace Consolidation Unit with Consolidation Unit Eliminated in the Rows.
●
Choose Refresh.
●
●
Right click on Consolidation Unit Eliminated(in the Rows) and choose
Hierarchy → Select Hierarchy → Select U## Legal Hier [U##_LEGAL] → OK.
Right click on U##_LEGAL and choose Hierarchy → Expand All.
The consolidation units display intercompany and external revenue but the intercompany
revenue eliminations are displayed with the elimination entities based on the first common
parent rule.
LESSON SUMMARY
You should now be able to:
●
Explain Intercompany Eliminations
●
Describe Matrix Eliminations
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Unit 4
Lesson 3
Describing Rule Based Consolidation of
Investments
LESSON OBJECTIVES
After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
●
Describe Consolidation of Investment Concepts
●
Explain Purchase Method Investment Eliminations
●
Describe Purchase Method Capital Eliminations
●
Discuss Equity Pick Up
Consolidation of Investments Concepts
Your corporation has many subsidiaries and you need to produce consolidated financial
statements. Eliminations of intercompany balances, eliminations of investments, and
calculation of non-controlling interests are complex so you want to automate this process as
much as possible.
Consolidation of Investments (C/I) deals with:
●
●
●
●
The elimination of investment on investors and equity of their subsidiaries (investee units).
It calculates the non controlling interests (NCI) of the eliminated investment and equity
and the differential (goodwill) amounts.
Then it reclassifies the minority portion of the equities reported by the subsidiaries.
The system performs these calculations and postings on the base of reported data for
investment and equity and group-dependent investment share percentages.
Consolidation of Investments Key Terms
●
●
●
●
●
Parent (holding) – The consolidating entity.
Purchase method – Generally used if ownership is greater than 50%. This is used when the
parent unit of a consolidation group exercises a dominating influence over an investee.
Equity method – Generally used when ownership is less than 50% and higher than 20%.
Financial data of an equity unit is not taken into account in the consolidated financial
statements. Only changes in the equity of the company are taken into consideration; this
affects the investment value stated in the consolidated balance sheet.
Direct share – The percentage (%) ownership between the investor and the investee.
Group share – The total percentage (%) ownership between the higher level holding and
the investee. This includes indirect ownership like:
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Unit 4: Consolidations and Eliminations
●
●
-
Company A owns 80% of company B
-
Company B owns 90% of company C
-
The group share for the company C in this case is 72% (80% x 90%)
Non-controlling interest – The percentage (%) portion of the investee not owned by the
group.
Goodwill – The difference between the purchase price and the fair market value of the
investee's equity.
Purchase Method Investment Elimination
Purchase Method Key Points
●
●
●
When subsidiaries are majority (greater than 50%) owned or the investor exerts significant
control, they are therefore consolidated using the purchase method.
Under the purchase method, the subsidiary’s trial balance is included in the group’s
financial statements.
The following conditions apply when an entity is consolidation using the purchase method:
-
The investment value in the holding company is eliminated.
-
The equity is eliminated.
-
-
The net income (Retained Earnings - Current Year) is adjusted to the group share to
disclose non-controlling interest.
The non-controlling interest is calculated for the equity and retained earnings.
Note:
This lesson focuses on the rule based solution.
Figure 71: Purchase Method Ownership Structure
One of the first steps in the consolidation process is to define the structure of the group being
consolidated, which includes the consolidation methods and rates. In the example above, you
have the following relationships:
●
Group shares:
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Lesson: Describing Rule Based Consolidation of Investments
-
-
-
-
-
TA00 is the parent holding company for the World. Therefore its ownership percentage
is 100% in CG00W.
US00 is the parent holding company for America. Therefore its ownership percentage
is 100% in CG00A.
SW00 is the parent holding company for Europe. Therefore its ownership percentage is
100% in CG00E.
US00 owns 35% of CA00. SW00 owns 75% of FR00.
The system will interpret the ownership of US00 and SW00 to be 100% owned by
TA00 in this example.
●
There are three consolidation groups: World, America, Europe.
●
All five consolidation units are included in consolidation group CG00W - World.
●
In CG00A - America, there are two consolidation units: CA00 and US00.
●
In CG00E - Europe, there are two consolidation units: FR00 and SW00.
Group Share Data - Key Points
Import Group Journal Entries:
Figure 72: Purchase Method Group Share Data Upload
For more information, see Import Group Journal Entries.
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Unit 4: Consolidations and Eliminations
Purchase Method Investment Elimination
Figure 73: Purchase Method Investment Elimination
The investment elimination will be discussed first, and then the capital related eliminations
will follow for clarity.
In the example above, the objective is to eliminate the investment for the owner consolidation
unit with an offset so that the balance sheet for the consolidation unit is still in balance.
Figure 74: Purchase Method - Log Result
In the log output, you can display the method and sequence to make it easier to trace
automatically generated values back to the configuration objects. An individual consolidation
group can run executed or all groups can be run at one time.
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Lesson: Describing Rule Based Consolidation of Investments
Figure 75: Purchase Method Reported Result
The investment elimination was booked to posting level 30.
Purchase Method Investment Elimination
1. Go to the SAP Fiori Launchpad.
2. Open the Consolidation Monitor tile.
3. Run the Investment / Equity Elimination task for all consolidation units.
4. View the log for SW00 and FR00.
Purchase Method Capital Eliminations
Note:
Even though investment elimination occurs at the same time as the capital related
eliminations, they are covered in two separate topics for clarity. Also, this lesson
focuses on the rule based solution.
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Unit 4: Consolidations and Eliminations
Figure 76: Purchase Method Result Summary
The above figure is an example of the result we expect for SW00 and FR00. The current year
retained earnings are eliminated during subsequent consolidation.
Calculations
●
●
Goodwill: Investment of 150,000 + .75 x (Common Stock of – 68,090 + Prior Year
Retained Earnings(PYRE) of - 41,640). This represents the premium paid.
Non-Controlling Interest (NCI): (100% minus group share of 75%) x (Common Stock of –
68,090 + Prior Year Retained Earnings of - 41,640). This represents the equity value not
owned by the group.
Equity Pick Up
Figure 77: EPU Concept
Equity pickup (EPU) is a regulatory requirement in some countries to report standalone
financial statements for parent units. With the equity pickup, you can revaluate parent
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Lesson: Describing Rule Based Consolidation of Investments
company’s investment to reflect the change in equity. The change of equity after acquisition
has to be recorded on the parent unit books.
For example, reported income and movement in reserve (or other comprehensive income)
attributable to direct subsidiaries must be recorded on the parent unit books. The change of
equity after acquisition must also include the pickup from its own direct children. This
requires a “step” approach in the calculation of equity pick-up along the ownership hierarchy.
Just to give you a bit more background on the equity pickup, in China and Brazil, the equity
pickup is a required step in consolidation process to revaluate parent company then perform
elimination. In the United States of America, mainly financial service and certain regulated
industries have to perform equity pickup per regulator’s request.
Figure 78: EPU Motivation
Here’s how you can define the equity pickup process flow in SAP S/4HANA for group
reporting:
●
●
●
Prepare the required source data – reported financial data (such as G/L data, file upload,
mapped/imported data, data collected manually), investment % and forced control
Configure the posting items – share % and control data selection, source/target FS items
for postings
Run the equity pickup calculation – Run the equity pickup, and download the Excel file for
the calculated journal entry result
●
Upload the journal entry Excel file in SAP S/4HANA for group reporting
●
Carry on with your SAP S/4HANA for group reporting’s consolidation process
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Unit 4: Consolidations and Eliminations
Figure 79: EPU Data Flow
In the preceding figure the following steps are referred to:
1. Collect your unconsolidated/reported data either directly from General Accounting/
ACDOCA, or with file upload, or with API’s, or using our SAP Group Reporting Data Collection
apps for data mapping and manual data collection
2. Populate additional data – such as direct share %, net income calculation, or possible
adjustments – up to posting level 10
3. SAP S/4HANA for group reporting calculates the equity pickup, and generates an Excel file
to post equity pickup entries in the system
4. Optionally, you can reverse the equity pickup entries in a different a document type, if you
don’t want them to be consolidated
5. The equity pickup reports select unconsolidated/reported data and equity pickup entries,
and exclude equity pickup reversal entries
LESSON SUMMARY
You should now be able to:
●
Describe Consolidation of Investment Concepts
●
Explain Purchase Method Investment Eliminations
●
Describe Purchase Method Capital Eliminations
●
Discuss Equity Pick Up
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96
Unit 4
Lesson 4
Explaining Activity Based Purchase & Equity
Method
LESSON OBJECTIVES
After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
●
Explain Activity Based Purchase & Equity Method
Activity Based Consolidation of Investments
For more information, see Consolidation of Investments Process - Frequently Asked
Questions.
Either rule based or activity based consolidation of investments can be used by customers.
But, not both at the same time.
Figure 80: Rule Based vs Activity Based COI
For more information, see Consolidation of Investments (Activity-Based) .
First Consolidation - Purchase Method
●
Purchase Method:
-
-
The individual financial statements of an investee unit consolidated using the purchase
method are included in their entirety in the consolidated financial statements.
The investment in the consolidation unit that has been consolidated using the purchase
method or its equity is eliminated completely from the automatic consolidation of
investments.
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Unit 4: Consolidations and Eliminations
●
●
●
●
During consolidation of investments (C/I), all investment relationships between
companies in your corporate group are eliminated.
This is accomplished by eliminating the value of the parent companies’ investments
against the corresponding portion of the subsidiary stockholders’ equity.
The investment is compared with the investor's share of the investee's equity and the
difference is booked as goodwill.
Non-controlling interest is recorded.
Figure 81: First Consolidation - Purchase Method
●
●
The group share of 67.5 is calculated. However, the calculations are using the direct share
of 75% based on the method assignment to each Consolidation unit.
100% of the investment of 150,000 is eliminated:
-
●
●
●
100% of the Equity is eliminated:
-
Debit 316000 PY Retained Earnings 41,640.
-
Debit 311000 Issued Capital 68,090.
Non-controlling interest (NCI) is booked:
-
Credit 321100 NCI 10,410 (.25 x PY Retained Earnings 41,640).
-
Credit 321100 NCI 17,022 (.25 x Issued Capital 68,090).
The Differential is booked to Goodwill:
-
●
Credit 172100 Investment 150,000.
Debit 163100 Goodwill 67,703.
The Goodwill is reduced by 10% since SW00 is only 90% owned:
-
Debit 321000 NCI Goodwill Elimination 6,770.
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Lesson: Explaining Activity Based Purchase & Equity Method
-
Credit 163100 Goodwill 6,770.
Subsequent Consolidation - Purchase Method
●
●
Subsequent consolidation involves the posting of adjusting entries as a result of changes in
investee equity (for example, retention of profits or distribution of dividends).
The non-controlling share of the investee's net income is:
-
Deducted from the parent.
-
Reclassified to NCI equity capital.
Additional Control Data
Additional consolidation of investments (C/I) control data is used to track business activities
that occur during a period, such as capital increase or step acquisition
Activity-based consolidation of investments automatically posts the adjustments and
eliminations needed because of the investment relationship between consolidation units. This
is possible only when additional C/I control data is reported to complement the data reported
by the consolidation units with only financial statement (FS) items and subitems.
Upload File for Activity Based COI
Financial Statement Items: You define the financial statement (FS) items used in the
consolidation of investments postings using the following:
●
FS item role attribute
●
Non-controlling interest (NCI) target attribute
●
Selections
For more information, see Financial Statement Items - Requirements for Activity Based .
Figure 82: Upload File for Activity Based COI
Group Share Calculation
●
The group share is calculated automatically when the consolidation task is executed.
●
If needed for reporting, the group share task can be executed as well.
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Unit 4: Consolidations and Eliminations
Figure 83: Activity Based Data Enrichment
After running the consolidation of investments task, users can access the document data and
view the investment/equity data along with the ownership percentages, C/I Activity, and
Activity values.
Figure 84: Calculation of Group Shares
Key points regarding the data in the previous image:
●
You can view the data via the Display Group Journal Entries app.
●
The investment data (FS item 172100) includes:
●
-
The investment amounts.
-
The percentage ownership in the quantity column.
-
The C/I activity.
TA owns 90% of SW. SW owns 75% of FR. Therefore, the group share for the world is
67.5%.
Activity Based Consolidation of Investments
1. Go to the SAP Fiori Launchpad.
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Lesson: Explaining Activity Based Purchase & Equity Method
2. Switch your global parameters to Version S00.
3. Open the Consolidation Monitor tile.
4. Run the 2101 Cons of Invest / Act Based in test mode.
5. Expand CA00: The First Cons shows that ownership is 35%.
6. Expand First Cons. The differential is 72,344.
7. Expand Document to see an example of the accounting entry (the FS items used may vary
by accounting standard).
LESSON SUMMARY
You should now be able to:
●
Explain Activity Based Purchase & Equity Method
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101
Unit 4
Learning Assessment - Answers
1. Which of the following challenges companies face with an increase in the number of
mergers and acquisitions?
Choose the correct answer.
X
A A disrupted visibility of the reconciliation process between legal entities and
subsidiaries
X
B An increased communication between legal entities and subsidiaries which makes
it challenging to maintain data security between the legal entities and subsidiaries
X
C A lack of transparency between legal entities and subsidiaries which makes it
complicated to reconcile intercompany transactions between the legal entities and
subsidiaries
Correct. Companies face several challenges in a global economy with a significant
increase in the number of mergers and acquisitions. The most common one is a lack of
transparency between the legal entities and subsidiaries, therefore, making it more
challenging to reconcile intercompany transactions between the legal entities and
subsidiaries in a cost efficient manner which causes a significant delay in closing the
books.
2. Which of the following describes intercompany eliminations?
Choose the correct answers.
X
A The objective is to eliminate any transactions between the cons units so that there
are only transactions with 3rd parties left after the consolidating entries.
X
B SAP S/4HANA Finance for group reporting uses the eliminations business rule.
X
C SAP S/4HANA Finance for group reporting uses reclassification methods for
intercompany eliminations.
X
D Offset accounts can be determined based on the FS Item elimination attribute.
Correct. The intercompany eliminations eliminate any transactions between the cons
units so that there are only transactions with third parties left after the consolidating
entries. SAP S/4HANA Finance for group reporting uses the reclassification method for
intercompany eliminations. Offset accounts can be determined based on the FS Item
elimination attribute.
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Unit 4: Learning Assessment - Answers
3. Which of the following describes matrix eliminations?
Choose the correct answers.
X
A Matrix type reports can include consolidation groups as well as consolidation unit
hierarchies for example.
X
B Matrix eliminations uses elimination entities that reside in dimension tables.
X
C Matrix eliminations uses elimination entities that are determined from hierarchies
based on the first common parent rule.
X
D Reports can include consolidation unit hierarchies and profit center hierarchies at
the same time.
Correct. Matrix type reports can include consolidation groups as well as consolidation unit
hierarchies for example. Matrix eliminations use elimination entities that are determined
from hierarchies based on the first common parent rule. Reports can include
consolidation unit hierarchies and profit center hierarchies at the same time.
4. Match each key term with the corresponding description.
Match the item in the first column to the corresponding item in the second column.
Key Term
Description
Purchase method
Generally used if ownership is
greater than 50%.
Equity method
Non-controlling interest
Goodwill
Generally used when ownership is less than 50% and higher than 20%.
The percentage (%) portion of
the investee not owned by the
group.
The difference between the
purchase price and the fair
market value of the investee's
equity.
Correct. You have matched all the pairs correctly.
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Unit 4: Learning Assessment - Answers
5. Which of the following describes the purchase method (rule based)?
X
A The objective is to eliminate the investment.
X
B SAP S/4HANA Finance for group reporting amortizes goodwill.
X
C SAP S/4HANA Finance for group reporting uses the reclassification method to
eliminate subsidiary equity values.
X
D In order to perform the calculations, you need to run the Investment / Equity task.
Correct. In purchase method (rule based), the objective is to eliminate the investment.
SAP S/4HANA Finance for group reporting uses the reclassification method to eliminate
subsidiary equity values. In order to perform the calculations, you need to run the
Investment / Equity task.
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106
UNIT 5
Reporting Features
Lesson 1
Describing the Reporting Features
108
Lesson 2
Explaining the Group Reporting Value Proposition
115
UNIT OBJECTIVES
●
Explain Reporting in General
●
Describe the Group Reporting Value Proposition
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107
Unit 5
Lesson 1
Describing the Reporting Features
LESSON OBJECTIVES
After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
●
Explain Reporting in General
Reporting Options
Figure 85: Reporting Options
Key points:
●
●
●
●
There are two types of Fiori apps that are delivered off-the-shelf:
-
Design Studio
-
Web Dynpro (labeled as Accessible)
-
Customers can use one or both apps based on personal preference.
Analysis for Office can be launched from a Fiori app or it can be opened and then CDS
queries can be inserted.
Custom reports can be created based on business requirements such as when different
dimensions are needed, or when QTD and Ownership reports are required.
SAC data can be accessed into off-the-shelf stories via live connections. Or, the group
reporting data can be imported into SAC (essential for planning).
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Lesson: Describing the Reporting Features
Note:
If the data is imported, the data is loaded once for reports without logic and
once for cases where report logic is needed (using elimination entities). The
elimination entities are physically stored in their own dimensions.
Reporting in General
Reporting and Analysis - Key Points
●
Customers can use off-the-shelf SAP Fiori apps or easily add their own.
●
There are two primary delivered report apps on the SAP Fiori launchpad:
1. Group Data Analysis - balance sheet and profit & loss reporting for example.
2. Group Data Analysis - With Reporting Rules:
-
Statement of Equity.
-
Statement of Cash Flow.
-
Statement of Comprehensive Inc.
-
P&L by Function of Expense.
-
IC reconciliation.
For more information, see Group Data Analysis - With Reporting Rules .
Group Data Analysis Report
Figure 86: Group Data Analysis Report Example
In 1909, the group data analysis report is a single point of entry for many reporting needs. The
measures include: transaction currency, local currency, and group currency amounts as well
as quantity. ACDOCU dimensions are available via drag and drop.
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Unit 5: Reporting Features
When making multiple dimensional selections, the Pause button can be used to freeze the
report structure.
For more information, see Reporting Logic (New).
Report Jumps
Figure 87: Data Analysis Report Jump to S4H
Users can take advantage of the seamless integration by drilling down from the group results
(ACDOCU) to the original transaction in the core ACDOCA table. If it is an accounting
document, you can even display the T-Account view.
Time Dependent Hierarchy
Figure 88: Time Dependent Hierarchy
Time dependent hierarchies:
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Lesson: Describing the Reporting Features
●
Allows you to maintain just one hierarchy.
●
Pick the relationship you need based on the report key date.
●
You can also have multiple time-dependent hierarchies but only valid hierarchies appear in
the drop downs based on the key date.
Group Reporting in Analysis for Office
Figure 89: Group Reporting in Analysis for Office
●
You can use custom and delivered queries in Analysis for Office for on-premise
landscapes.
●
Analysis for Office (Excel) key features are:
-
Business user friendly
-
Multidimensional
-
Dynamic Formatting
-
Dynamic Formulas
-
Custom hierarchies (retain in workbooks)
-
Save applications (workbooks) to roles for distribution
-
Commenting
For more information, see Keeping up with SAP Analysis for Microsoft Office .
For more information, see SAP Jam: Analysis Office.
Reporting Features
Group Data Analysis Report Prompts
To understand the reporting logic, we will start with the Group Data Analysis report prompts.
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Unit 5: Reporting Features
Figure 90: Report Logic - Prompts
Report prompts - key points:
●
●
●
Some prompts are required and these are denoted by an asterisk (*).
Consolidation unit hierarchy requires a value however it can be filled with a dollar sign ($) if
no hierarchy is needed.
Some fields such as consolidation group require a value, but if needed, enter a hash (#) to
show that it is unassigned if a valid group is not needed.
●
Values default in from the users global parameters.
●
Period mode allows the user to view periodic and year-to-date data.
Report Logic Features
●
Combine multiple views on consolidated data that meet legal and management
requirements from one data set.
-
-
●
Group view: built on flat group definitions with assignment of consolidation units and
definition of group dependent attributes such as method, acquisition date, divestiture
date.
Hierarchy view: built on hierarchies of consolidation units, profit centers, and segments.
Flexible handling of re-organizations and regional reports for example by applying
hierarchy consolidation at run-time for the following dimensions:
-
Consolidation unit.
-
Profit center.
-
Segment.
For more information, see 1909 Reporting Logic.
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112
Lesson: Describing the Reporting Features
Combining Views
Figure 91: Combining Views
Group Consolidation View
●
This is primarily for legal reporting.
●
The focus of these reports is primarily on all data including posting level 30.
●
●
In this scenario, a consolidation group does need to be selected in the report prompts.
Profit center and / or segment hierarchies are not required.
Group-dependent postings are required, for example, generated by running Preparation
for Consolidation Group Changes (PCC) (PCC) tasks. For more information, see
Preparation for Consolidation Group Changes .
Combined View Scenarios
●
●
●
●
You may want to get a combined view in the Group Data Analysis report where both
hierarchy and consolidation group are chosen.
In this way, in addition to the hierarchy definitions for consolidation units, segments, and
profit centers, all group-dependent consolidation settings are also considered, such as
consolidation methods (Purchase or Equity), consolidation unit-to-group assignments,
and the first consolidation/divestiture year and period.
I want to consider the consolidation interval of companies so that the financial data outside
of the group can be revoked and the PCC (preparation for consolidation group change)
postings can be recorded according to the acquisition and divestiture periods.
I want to consider the consolidation method, for example, the Equity method, so that the
financial data can be revoked with different record types.
●
I want to see the postings for consolidation of investments (C/I).
●
I want to see manual postings at posting level 30 (Consolidation Entries).
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Unit 5: Reporting Features
Sign Flip
Figure 92: Switch Signs on Hierarchy Nodes
In essence, +/- sign change allows you to reverse the +/- sign for the values of nodes and the
FS items belonging to them in a Consolidation Financial Statement Item hierarchy. You can
select and manage the +/- sign change for these hierarchies in the Manage Global Hierarchies
app. When you then use the hierarchies in your consolidation analytical reports, the values for
nodes with +/- sign change and their FS items will display as negative if they’re typically
stored as positive and vice versa.
This is useful, for example, when you want to display revenue, which in S/4HANA Finance is
stored as a negative value to indicate a credit. However, there’s a good chance that you’d
rather see your revenue as a positive value. In that case, you can simply select +/- Sign
Change for nodes of revenue FS items so that they appear as positive values in your reports.
Note:
Although checkmarks will not appear for the FS items directly underneath the
node, they will inherit the +/- sign change settings once the hierarchy is activated.
Selecting sign change does not influence data in databases nor calculations.
LESSON SUMMARY
You should now be able to:
●
Explain Reporting in General
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114
Unit 5
Lesson 2
Explaining the Group Reporting Value
Proposition
LESSON OBJECTIVES
After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
●
Describe the Group Reporting Value Proposition
Group Reporting Value Proposition
SAP S/4HANA Group Reporting
Figure 93: Value Proposition
With SAP S/4HANA Group Reporting, your organization can streamline its processes so that
it can focus on profitable growth.
LESSON SUMMARY
You should now be able to:
●
Describe the Group Reporting Value Proposition
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115
Unit 5
Learning Assessment
1. Which of the following are key features of Analysis for Office (Excel)?
Choose the correct answers.
X
A Business user friendly
X
B Multidimensional
X
C Dynamic Formatting and Dynamic Formulas
X
D Commenting
2. Report Logic combines multiple views on consolidated data that meet legal and
management requirements from one data set.
Determine whether this statement is true or false.
X
True
X
False
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116
Unit 5
Learning Assessment - Answers
1. Which of the following are key features of Analysis for Office (Excel)?
Choose the correct answers.
X
A Business user friendly
X
B Multidimensional
X
C Dynamic Formatting and Dynamic Formulas
X
D Commenting
Correct. All the listed options are correct.
2. Report Logic combines multiple views on consolidated data that meet legal and
management requirements from one data set.
Determine whether this statement is true or false.
X
True
X
False
Correct. The statement is true.
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117