The object class is used to classify controlling objects such as cost centers, orders, and cost objects, and to display the cost flows within CO from a business perspective. The classification is made according to the SAP R/3 function list.

The following object classes are defined by SAP:

• Overhead costs (GKOST)

• Investments (INVST)

• Production (FERTG)

• Profit and sales (ERGEB)

The assignment of the cost center, cost object, sales order, and profitability segment to an object class is fixed by SAP, but you can assign other objects as you require.

The table below shows an overview of the objects in CO with fixed assignments, and the objects that can be freely assigned. If you do not assign an object, then the default setting applies.

The objects not assigned to an object class can be assigned in the respective master data records. For example, in each set of master data, you can assign orders in the general parameters to control the object class.

You assign a cost object to an object class regardless of its cost object type. Assignments between cost object and object class is predefined according to cost object type. The following assignments apply:

Once all postings for CO period-end closing are completed, and thus all allocations have been made, the following situations should apply:

• Cost centers and internal orders are completely credited

• Objects in the "Investment" class are still debited with values for works under construction

• Objects in the "Production" class display "Work in Process" (WIP)

• Objects in the "Profit" class display the operating profit.

The requirements are listed in the table below:

The object class is used in the following applications:

• Cost Element Accounting

In Profit Center Accounting, the SAP R/3 System updates the object class in the transaction data if the corresponding posting contains the object class. You can use the object class as a characteristic in the information system.