Maintaining Dependencies 

Purpose

In product modeling, you can use dependencies as follows:

·        To exclude combinations of characteristic values that are not allowed, for example, a convertible with a sun roof.

·        To assign variable condition keys that then influence product pricing. For example, the price could increase automatically by EUR 1000 if you choose a sun roof during configuration.

·        To infer characteristic values.

·        To guide the user through interactive product configuration by making characteristics visible, selectable (allowed), or required based on selection of other characteristics.

 

There are three different types of dependencies:

·        Formula dependencies: You can use formula dependencies to describe the dependencies that exist between different configurable characteristics and their values.

·        Conditions for characteristics: You can use conditions for characteristics to guide end users through interactive product configuration. You can define the circumstances under which characteristics are visible, selectable (allowed) or required.

·        Table dependencies: You can use table dependencies to store valid combinations of values for different characteristics and to restrict domains.

 

You maintain the first two types of dependencies in Internet Pricing and Configurator – Product Modeling Environment (IPC-PME) using the dependency editor. The dependency editor provides an easy-to-use environment for maintaining dependencies. As detailed knowledge of dependency syntax is not required, the editor is also suitable for users with no previous experience of R/3 Variant Configuration. For more information on dependency syntax, see Dependency Syntax.

Prerequisites

You have:

·        Some previous knowledge of maintaining products in SAP CRM. For more information, see SAP Help Portal under SAP.com Cross-Industry Solutions ® SAP Customer Relationship Management ® CRM 4.0 ® Master Data ® Products.

·        Created a configurable product, see Creating a Configurable Product and Accessing the Product Model in PME.

·        Assigned this product to this product hierarchy and a product category.