SYSPRO Ribbon bar > Setup > General Setup > Set Key Information

Set Key Information

You use this program to configure your requirements for key fields in SYSPRO. This ranges from defining the presentation lengths for key fields as well as specifying the key type and numbering method.

You can also define the length of prefixes against key fields, which is included in the total of the key field presentation length.

Key Information

A list of all the key fields in the system and the details defined against these fields are displayed on this tab.

To maintain these fields, highlight the key field and make the changes on the Key Maintenance tab.

Key type Description
Customers This must be numeric if you want automatic customer numbering (Accounts Receivable Setup).
Suppliers

This must be numeric if you want automatic supplier numbering (Accounts Payable Setup).

Stock codes

If set to numeric, you are restricted to using a maximum of 15 characters. If set to alpha, you can use a maximum of 30 characters.

Must be numeric when Stock code numbering method is Automatic (Inventory Setup).

Serials Must be alphanumeric to enable Manual serial number tracking (Inventory Setup).
Lots Must be numeric when Automatic lot numbering is enabled (Lot Traceability Setup).
Buying groups Defines the key type for buying groups used in contract pricing (see Contract Prices).
Assets Set to numeric to enable automatic asset numbering (Asset Register Setup).
Capex numbers Set to numeric to enable automatic capex numbering (Asset Register Setup).
ECC ECO numbers Set to numeric if you want automatic numbering.
ECC revisions Set to numeric if you want automatic numbering.
ECC releases Set to numeric if you want automatic numbering.
AR invoices/settlement

This must be alphanumeric if you want invoice numbering by branch (Accounts Receivable Setup) as well as use prefixes for each branch's invoices (AR Branch Maintenance).

Do not change the key type for the AR Invoice number to Numeric after defining the prefixes against each branch, otherwise you will not be able to access any invoices, debit or credit notes processed using prefixes.

If set to alphanumeric and your invoice numbering is By company (Accounts Receivable Setup) then you cannot add Retentions to a contract in the Projects and Contracts module (specifically in the Contract Maintenance program).

Payment run

Defines the key type for AP payment runs created using the Payment Cycle Maintenance program. If set to alpha, you will not be able to define automatic payment run numbering (Accounts Payable Setup).

Must be numeric when Payment run numbering method is Automatic (Accounts Payable Setup).

Goods in transit

Must be numeric when Goods in transit reference is By company or By warehouse (Inventory Setup).

Must be alphanumeric when Goods in transit reference is By warehouse - with prefix (Inventory Setup).

Sales orders

Must be numeric when Sales Order numbering method is By company (Sales Order Setup).

Consider setting this to alphanumeric when Sales Order numbering method is By branch to enable using the branch code as a prefix to the sales order number. This makes it easy to identify the branch that generated the document.

Delivery notes

Select this to generate delivery note numbers based on the numbering defined for the branch, together with a prefix.

The prefix can assist in identifying the branch that generated the document. At the time of printing a delivery note, the next delivery note number from the branch associated with the transaction is assigned to the document (AR Branch Maintenance). You will be unable to select this option if your sales order key type is set to Numeric (Set Key Information). Only available if you indicated that the generation of delivery note numbers is required at branch level

Dispatch notes

This cannot be numeric when the Dispatch numbering method is Automatic per order.

This cannot be alphanumeric when Dispatch numbering method is Automatic(Dispatch Notes Setup).

RMA numbers Must be numeric when RMA numbering method is By company or By branch (RMA Setup).

Must be alphanumeric when RMA numbering method is By branch - with prefix.

Purchase orders

Must be numeric when Purchase order numbering method is By company or By warehouse.

Must be alphanumeric when Purchase order numbering method is By warehouse with prefix (Purchase Orders Setup).

GRN numbers

Must be numeric when GRN numbering is By company.

Must be alphanumeric when GRN numbering is By warehouse with prefix (Purchase Orders Setup).

Requisitions

Must be numeric when Requisition numbering method is Automatic (Purchase Orders Setup).

Quotations

Quotation numbering is either set up in the Quotation Setup program or the Set Key Information program. If you are using alphanumeric numbering, you also have the ability to add a prefix to the quotation numbers.

You can define the length of both the quotation number and the prefix. The length of the quotation number will include the prefix, so for example you can not have a prefix length of 10 and a quotation length of 8.

If you enable numbering by branch, you will need to enter the prefix (if required) and the next quotation number for the branch in the AR Branch Maintenance program

Jobs

Job numbering is either set up in the WIP Setup program or the Set Key Information program. If you are using alphanumeric numbering, you also have the ability to add a prefix to the inspection numbers.

You can define the length of both the job number and the prefix. The length of the job number will include the prefix, so for example you can not have a prefix length of 10 and an job number length of 8.

If you enable numbering by job classification, you will need to enter the prefix (if required) and the next document number for the job class in the Job Classification Maintenance program.

Additionally, if you enable numbering by job classification, it is necessary that the option Job classification required is enabled in the program WIP Setup.

WIP inspection

WIP inspection reference numbering is either set up in the WIP Setup program or the Set Key Information program.

If you are using alphanumeric numbering, you also have the ability to add a prefix to the inspection numbers.

You can define the length of both the WIP inspection number and the prefix. The length of the WIP inspection number will include the prefix, so for example you can not have a prefix length of 10 and a WIP inspection number length of 8.

If you enable numbering by job classification, you will need to enter the prefix (if required) and the next document number for the job class in the Job Classification Maintenance program.

Additionally, if you enable numbering by job classification, it is necessary that the option Job classification required is enabled in the program WIP Setup.

AR payment run

Defines the key type for payment runs created using the AR Payment Run program.

Numbering must be numeric if you want to use the Automatic payment run numbering method (Accounts Receivable Setup).

AR collector run

Defines the key type for collector runs created using the AR Payment Run program. This is only displayed when the Collector required option is enabled (Accounts Receivable Setup).

Numbering must be numeric if you want to use the Automatic collector run numbering method (Accounts Receivable Setup).

Key Maintenance

Field Description
Key This indicates the Key you are currently maintaining.
Properties  
Key type
Field Description
Alphanumeric Defines the key as alphanumeric (i.e. the key can consist of alphabetic and numeric characters).

Data is left-aligned with trailing blanks.

Numeric Defines the key as numeric (i.e. the key can only consist of numeric characters).

Data is right-aligned with preceding zeros. Only the digits 0 to 9 are allowed.

See also: Notes and warnings.

Case This applies only to Key types defined as Alpha.

The capability of automatically converting key fields to upper or lowercase is supported in all forms, toolbars and data grids, but is not supported in entry fields located on the old style screens (Dialog boxes).

FieldDescription
MixedSelect this if the key can consist of both upper and lower characters. No conversion of case is performed.
UpperAutomatically converts any alphabetic characters in the key to uppercase. If the key is typed in as lowercase, then the system converts it into uppercase.
LowerAutomatically converts any alphabetic characters in the key to lowercase. If the key is typed in as uppercase, then the system converts it to lowercase.
Suppress leading zeros Do not display the zeros that appear before the numeric key.
Presentation length

Restrict the number of characters that can be entered or displayed in a key field.

For example if you enter customer code 1 then 000000000000001 will be displayed, but if you enter a presentation length of 5 then 00001 will be displayed or printed on a report.

See also: Notes and warnings.

Prefix length

Define the length of the prefix if you have selected a key type that can be prefixed, and you want the prefix to be a fixed number of characters.

If the prefix is zero, then the prefix length is dynamic and will be determined by the number of characters you define in the prefix.

For example if the sales order has a presentation length of 8 characters and is set to be prefixed by branch, and branch AA is prefixed with A01-, order numbers A01-0001 through A01-7999 will be created for branch AA. If branch BB is prefixed with X- an order range of X-000001 through X-799999 will be created.
Numbering The Numbering fields change depending on the Key field selected in the Key Information listview. See the relevant sections below based on the row highlighted in the Key Information listview.

Numbering - AR collector run

Field Description
Numbering  
Method  
Manual Manually allocate a unique collector run code to each collector run created.
Automatic

Assign the next collector run number automatically to each new collector run created.

Collector run numbers are allocated according to the number defined in the Next collector run field. You can only select this option if the Key type for Collector run is defined as Numeric.

Next AR collector run

Enter the number you want to allocate to the next collector run created. This number is automatically incremented by one for each collector run created.

This field is only enabled if you selected Automatic at the Collector run numbering method field.

Numbering - AR invoices/settlement

Field Description
Numbering See also Document numbering.
Method  
Company

Select this to generate invoice, credit note and debit note numbers at company level (i.e. the next invoice, credit note and debit note numbers below are used).

If you select this option, then the branch associated with the transaction has no bearing on the document number generated.

  • You cannot add Retentions to a contract in the Projects and Contracts module (specifically in the Contract Maintenance program), if you select this option and you set the A/R Invoice number key type to Alpha (Accounts Receivable Setup).

Branch

Select this to generate invoice, credit note and debit note numbers from the Accounts Receivable branch associated with the transaction. The next invoice, credit note and debit note numbers are maintained against individual branches using the (AR Branch Maintenance) program.

If your Accounts Receivable Invoice number key type is set to Alphanumeric, then you can assign a single character as a prefix to the document numbers generated by each branch. This enables you to easily identify the branch that generated the document.

Next credit note Indicate the next credit note number to use for the company.
Next debit note Indicate the next debit note number to use for the company.
Next discount credit note This indicates the next discount credit note number that will be used by the system.
Next discount debit note  
Same invoice for different customers

Select this to be able to use duplicate invoice numbers when processing invoices using the (AR Invoice Posting) or Sales order invoicing providing these are for different customers (i.e. you want to be able to use the same invoice number against different customers in AR Invoice Posting).

If you do not select this option, then all Accounts Receivable invoices created using the AR Invoice Posting program as well as all Sales invoices created must have a unique number within this SYSPRO company. An error message is displayed when you attempt to use an existing invoice number.

This option applies irrespective of what your Invoice numbering method is set to.

AR Branches  

Numbering - AR payment run

Field Description
Numbering  
Method  
Manual Manually allocate a unique payment run code to each payment run created.
Automatic

Assign the next payment run number automatically to each new payment run created.

Payment run numbers are allocated according to the number defined in the Next payment run field. You can only select this option if the Key type for Payment run is defined as Numeric.

Next AR payment run

Enter the number you want to allocate to the next payment run created. This number is automatically incremented by one for each payment run created.

This field is only enabled if you selected Automatic at the Payment run numbering method field.

Numbering - Assets

Field Description
Numbering  
Method  
Manual Manually allocate a unique asset code to identify each new asset added.
Automatic Assign the next asset code automatically when you add new assets. This will be based on the entry made at the Next asset number field below. You can only assign asset codes automatically if the Asset code key type is set to Numeric.
Next asset Indicate the next asset code number to use when the next asset is added.

Numbering - Buying groups

There are no numbering requirements for buying groups.

Numbering - Capex numbers

Field Description
Numbering  
Method  
Manual Manually allocate a unique capex code to identify each new capex item added.
Automatic Assign the next capex code automatically when you add new capex items. This will be based on the entry made at the Next capex number field below. You can only assign asset codes automatically if the Capex code key type is set to Numeric.
Next capex number Indicate the next capex number to use when the next capex item is added.

Numbering - Customers

Field Description
Numbering  
Method Define the numbering method for new customers created using the AR Customer Maintenance program.
Manual Manually allocate a unique customer code to identify a new customer added.
Automatic Assign the next customer code automatically when you add a new customer, based on the entry made at the Next customer number field (Accounts Receivable Setup).
[Note]

You can only assign customer codes automatically if the Customer Key type is set to Numeric.

Scripted Assign the next customer code automatically when you add a new customer, based on a user defined script.

You can use the VBScript Editor to build a unique customer code for each new customer added.

Next customer Indicate the next customer number that must be allocated to the customer code field when next you add a customer using the AR Customer Maintenance program.

Numbering - Delivery notes

Field Description
Numbering  
Method  
None Select this if you do not want to number your delivery notes.
Company Select this to generate delivery note numbers using the entry made at the Next delivery note field.
Branch Select this to generate delivery note numbers based on the numbering defined for the branch associated with the sale.
Prefixed branch

Select this to generate delivery note numbers based on the numbering defined for the branch, together with a prefix.

The prefix can assist in identifying the branch that generated the document. At the time of printing a delivery note, the next delivery note number from the branch associated with the transaction is assigned to the document (AR Branch Maintenance).

You will be unable to select this option if your sales order key type is defined as Numeric.

Next delivery note Indicate the next delivery note number that the system will use, if delivery note numbers are being generated at company level.
AR Branches  

Numbering - Dispatch notes

Field Description
Numbering  
Method  
Manual Manually allocate a unique dispatch note number.
Automatic Assign the next dispatch note number automatically. You cannot select this when your dispatch note key type is alphanumeric.
By order

Generate the dispatch note number as the order number followed by a unique key for each dispatch note created for the order.

You cannot select this when your dispatch note key type is numeric.

Next dispatch note Enter the next dispatch note number that will be used by the system, if your dispatch numbering method is set to be automatic.

Numbering - ECC ECO numbers

Field Description
Numbering  
Method  
Manual Manually allocate a unique engineering change order number.
Automatic Assign the next generated engineering change order number automatically.
Next ECO Indicate the next engineering change order number that must be used.

Numbering - ECC releases

Field Description
Numbering  
Method  
Manual Manually allocate a unique release number.
Automatic Assign the next release number automatically.

Numbering - ECC revisions

Field Description
Numbering  
Method  
Manual Manually allocate a unique revision number.
Automatic Assign the next revision number automatically.

Numbering - Goods in transit

Field Description
Numbering  
Method  
Manual Manually allocate a unique GIT Reference number whenever you process an inter-warehouse or supply chain transfer of goods.
Automatic Assign the next GIT Reference number automatically.
Warehouse

Select this to assign the next GIT Reference number automatically, according to the numbering method defined against the source warehouse (Warehouse Maintenance).

You can select this option only if the key type of the GIT Reference field is defined as Numeric.

Prefixed warehouse

Select this to assign the next GIT Reference automatically, according to the numbering method defined against the source warehouse, together with a two character prefix (Warehouse Maintenance).

You can select this option only if the key type of the GIT Reference field is defined as Alphanumeric.

Next goods in transit reference

Indicate the GIT Reference number that will be used when next you process an inter-warehouse or supply chain transfer of goods.

This number is incremented by one (1) each time you process a transfer of stock into transit.

You can enter a reference here only if you indicated that the system must generate the next number at company level (i.e. If you selected the By company option at the Goods in Transit Reference field).

Warehouses  

Numbering - GRN numbers

Field Description
Numbering  
Method  
Manual Manually allocate a unique Goods Received Note number for each purchase order receipt.
Automatic Assign the next Goods Received Note number automatically.
Warehouse

Assign the next Goods Received Note number automatically according to the numbering method defined against the warehouse (Warehouse Maintenance).

If you select this option, then you should define a default warehouse against each operator who processes purchase orders (Operator Maintenance). This default warehouse is then used when purchasing non-stocked items.

You should enable the option: Automatic for each new p/order line and/or For each new line in 'receipt all' to ensure that the correct numbering is applied according to the warehouse against each line.

This option is applicable to LCT Shipment receipts only when the option: Automatic by shipment is enabled. In this scenario, the GRN number is always generated from the first warehouse encountered against the shipment. You can only select this option of you selected the option: Restrict order to a single warehouse and use for delivery address.

Prefixed warehouse

Assign the next Goods Received Note number automatically according to the numbering method defined against the warehouse together with a two-character prefix (Warehouse Maintenance).

If you select this option, then you should define a default warehouse against each operator who processes purchase orders (Operator Maintenance). This default warehouse is then used when purchasing non-stocked items.

This applies only when Restrict orders to single warehouse and use for delivery address is enabled (Purchase Orders Setup) and the Key type for GRN number is set to Alphanumeric.

Branch  
Prefixed branch  
Next GRN Indicate the next GRN number that will be used by the system, if your GRN numbering method is defined as By company.
Auto GRN for each purchase order line

Generate a new GRN number for each stock item receipted using the Purchase Order Receipts program.

If any stock item on the purchase order requires inspection or is traceable, then a new GRN number is assigned to each line regardless of whether this option has been selected.

Auto GRN for each line for receipt all

Produce a GRN number per line when using the Receipt All function in the Purchase Order Receipts program.

If you do not select this option then the Receipt All function generates a single GRN number for all lines.

If any stock item on the purchase order requires inspection or is traceable, then a new GRN number is assigned to each line regardless of whether this option has been selected.

Auto GRN for each line shipment Select this to assign a GRN number to each new shipment received into stock using the Landed Cost Tracking system.
Check for duplicate GRN's

Select this if you require GRN numbers to be unique, regardless of the supplier.

If you select this option, then you need to select the function: Create GRN Master File from the Reindex Data Files program to create a GRN Master file. The GRN Master file is used by the system to ensure that duplicate GRN numbers are not created.

AP Branches Select the hyperlink to maintain branches in Browse on AP Branches.
Warehouses Select the hyperlink to maintain branches in Browse on Warehouses.

Numbering - Jobs

Field Description
Numbering  
Method  
Manual

Manually allocate a unique job number when capturing jobs in the system.

This setting is ignored by the Job Review program when you select the Create All function. Job numbers are assigned automatically as the jobs are created. The program emulates automatic numbering and uses the next job number defined in the WIP control for each job created.

Automatic

Assign the next job number automatically.

You can only select this option if your job key type is defined as numeric

Job classification

Number your jobs automatically according to the classification assigned at the time of capturing the job.

This option is typically used when you want to control job number ranges. An example would be the allocation of components to jobs according to a job number range (Bill of Materials Setup).

Job numbering by job classification is configured using the Browse on Job Classification program.

If you select this option, then you must define a default job class against the code of the operator(s) who will use the Requirements Calculation program. These operators will be unable to run the Requirements Calculation program if this default job class is not defined (Operator Maintenance).

Scripted

Assign the next job number automatically when you add a new job, based on a user defined script. Currently, only the Job Entry program uses the script process.

From the Job Entry program, you select Create Job Numbering Script from the Options menu to build and test the script to assign the job number.

Next job If your job numbering method is defined as Automatic, then enter the next number that will be used when you capture a job in the system.
Job classifications Select the hyperlink to maintain classifications in the Browse on Job Classification program.

Numbering - Lots

Field Description
Numbering  
Method Assign the next customer code automatically when you add a new customer, based on the entry made at the Next customer number field (Accounts Receivable Setup).
Manual Manually allocate a unique lot number.
Automatic

Assign the next lot number automatically.

  • You cannot select this if your lot number key type is defined as alphanumeric (Company Maintenance).

  • This option is not applicable if you have enabled the option: Lot number equal to job number.

  • If you select this option, then you will not be able to select the option: Reserve lots for parent (WIP Setup).

Next lot Enter the next lot number that will be used by the system, if automatic lot numbering is required.
Lot is equal to job

Select this to set the lot number to be the same as the job number when processing transactions in the Job Receipts program.

  • Both your lot and job number key types must be the same (i.e. either both must be numeric, or both must be alphanumeric).

  • This option is only applied to co-products if the option: Same lot to be used on multiple stock codes is also selected.

Numbering - Payment run

Field Description
Numbering  
Method  
Manual Manually allocate a unique payment run code to each payment run created.
Automatic

Assign the next payment run number automatically to each new payment run created.

Payment run numbers are allocated according to the number defined in the Next payment run field. You can only select this option if the Key type for Payment run is defined as Numeric.

Next payment run

Enter the number you want to allocate to the next payment run created. This number is automatically incremented by one for each payment run created.

This field is only enabled if you selected Automatic at the Payment run numbering method field.

Numbering - Purchase orders

Field Description
Numbering  
Method  
Manual Manually allocate a unique order number whenever you capture purchase orders.
Automatic Assign the next purchase order number automatically.
Warehouse

Assign the next order number automatically, according to the numbering method defined against the warehouse (Warehouse Maintenance).

This applies only when Restrict orders to single warehouse and use for delivery address is enabled (Purchase Orders Setup) and the Key type for Purchase orders is set to Numeric.

Prefixed warehouse

Assign the next order number automatically, according to the numbering method defined against the warehouse together with a one-character prefix (Warehouse Maintenance).

This applies only when Restrict orders to single warehouse and use for delivery address is enabled (Purchase Orders Setup) and the Key type for Purchase orders is set to Alphanumeric.

Branch Assign the next order number automatically, according to the numbering method defined against the AP Branch (AP Branch Maintenance).
Prefixed branch

Assign the next order number automatically, according to the numbering method defined against the AP branch together with a prefix (AP Branch Maintenance).

Next purchase order Indicate the next purchase order number that will be used by the system, if your purchase order numbering method is defined as By company.
AP Branches Select the hyperlink to maintain branches in Browse on AP Branches.
Warehouses Select the hyperlink to maintain branches in Browse on Warehouses.

Numbering - Quotations

Field Description
Numbering  
Method  
Manual Manually allocate a unique number for each quotation.
Automatic Assign the next quotation number automatically. This option is useful if a large number of quotations are processed on a daily basis.
Branch Number quotations by branch.
Next quotation Indicate the number that will be assigned to the next quotation captured.
AR Branches Select the hyperlink to maintain branches in Browse on AR Branches.

Numbering - Requisitions

Field Description
Numbering  
Method  
Manual Manually allocate a unique number for each requisition.
Automatic Assign the next requisition number automatically.
Next requisition Indicate the next requisition number that will be used by the system, if your Requisition numbering method is defined as automatic.

Numbering - RMA numbers

Field Description
Numbering  
Method  
Manual Manually allocate a unique RMA number whenever merchandise is returned from a customer.
Automatic Assign the next RMA number automatically.
Branch

Select this to assign the next RMA number automatically at branch level when merchandise is returned from a customer.

You define the next RMA number to use against each branch using the AR Branch Maintenance program. You can select this option only if the key type of the RMA number field is set to Numeric.

Prefixed branch

Select this to assign the next RMA number, with a prefix, automatically at branch level when merchandise is returned from a customer. You define the prefix and next RMA number to use against each branch using the AR Branch Maintenance program.

You can select this option only if the key type of the RMA number field is set to Alphanumeric.

Next RMA number Indicate the next RMA number that will be used by the system if you indicated that your RMA numbers must be generated automatically.
AR Branches Select the hyperlink to maintain branches in Browse on AR Branches.

Numbering - Sales orders

Field Description
Numbering  
Method  
Manual Manually allocate a unique sales order number at the time of creating the order.
Automatic Assign the next sales order number automatically when you add a new order.
Branch

Select this for the system to assign the next order numbers automatically, based on the numbering defined for the Branch associated with the sale (i.e. the numbering you defined against each branch using the AR Branch Maintenance program).

If your Sales order key type is set to Alphanumeric, then you can assign a single character as a prefix to the document numbers generated by each branch. This enables you to easily identify the branch that generated the document.

If you have multiple branches and you are not using a prefix, then you need to select the range of numbers for each branch in such a way that the numbers for the different branches do not overlap.

Next sales order Indicate the next sales order number that the system will use, if order numbers are being generated at company level.
Next credit note Indicate the next credit note number that the system will use, if order numbers are being generated at company level. This number must be in the range 800000 to 899999.
Next debit note Indicate the next debit note number that the system will use, if order numbers are being generated at company level. This number must be in the range 900000 to 999999.
Use source branch for SCT numbering

Select this if you want the next order number assigned to a supply chain transfer order to be determined by the numbering method of the branch that is assigned to the source warehouse.

If you do not select this option, then the numbering method of the branch assigned to the target warehouse determines the next order number assigned to a supply chain transfer order.

Auto invoice numbering - order release

Select this to assign an invoice number automatically when you release an order.

The number allocated to the first invoice generated for the order is the order number if you select the option: Order number moved to invoice number (Sales Order Setup). Otherwise it is the next invoice number by branch or by company, based on the Invoice numbering method selected (Accounts Receivable Setup).

Even if you select this option, a manual invoice number can be entered when processing a Billing if the option: Billing type is set to Post-billing with invoice.

Sales order moved to invoice

Select this to assign the next invoice number manually when you release the order.

If you select this option, then invoice numbers are only checked against the customer for duplication and not against the company. This means that it is possible to have duplicate invoice numbers in the system (i.e. the same invoice number against two or more customers).

An invoice number can only be entered against an order if the option: Request when order released from status 4 is set to Invoice and against a Billing if the option: Billing type is set to Post-billing with invoice (Sales Order Setup).

If an invoice number is not entered manually, then:

  • the sales order number is allocated to the first invoice for the order if the option: Order number moved to invoice number is selected (Sales Order Setup)

  • the next invoice number by branch or by company is allocated to the invoice, based on the Invoice numbering method selected (Accounts Receivable Setup).

    For subsequent invoices for a billing, a manual invoice number must be entered.

AR Branches  

Numbering - Serials

Tracking of manual serial numbers enables you to create sequential ranges of manual serial numbers.

The serial number can be created according to the Prefix and Next suffix defined either against the company or against each individual serialized stock item.

For example: You define the Prefix as A1 and the Next suffix as 001. You create a range of three manual serial numbers. The serial numbers are generated as: A1001, A1002, A1003. The next range of manual serials numbers created will begin with A1004. These options are only enabled if the option: Serial tracking system required (Inventory Setup) is selected.

The Key type for Serial number is set to Alphanumeric.

Field Description
Numbering  
Method  
None Select this if you do not want to keep track of the range of manual serial numbers generated in the system.
Company

Keep track of manual serial number ranges at company level.

You select this option if you want to create ranges of manual serial numbers that are sequential within the company.

These number ranges can be assigned to various stock codes. When you take on serials and do not change the prefix from the default company prefix, then the last suffix used + 1 is stored so that the next manual serial entered defaults to that suffix.

If you change the sequential suffix numbering of serials, then the system updates the suffix accordingly.

This applies in all programs which enable you to take on manual serials. Manual serial number ranges are created according to the prefix and next suffix defined against the company.

Up to 15 characters may be used for either the prefix or the next suffix, but the combination of prefix and suffix cannot exceed 20 characters (i.e. the serial number cannot exceed 20 characters).

Stock code

Keep track of manual serial number ranges at stock code level.

If you select this option, then you define the prefix and next suffix against each individual stock item (Stock Code Maintenance).

You select this option if you want the system to keep track of the last serial number range created for a specific stock code. This enables you to create ranges of manual serial numbers that are sequential for a specific stock item.

Serial prefix Enter the character(s) that must form the start of the serial number when you add a range of manual serial numbers within this company.
Serial suffix

Enter the number to append to the prefix.

The combination of prefix and suffix forms the serial number. The system automatically increments the Next suffix for each new serial number created in the range providing the number was created using the prefix.

The number of numeric characters entered for the suffix must cater for the total quantity of serial numbers you want to add using the defined prefix. For example: A suffix of 1 character will allow 9 serials to be added for the prefix you defined.

Numbering - Stock codes

Field Description
Numbering  
Method Define the numbering method for new stock items created using the Stock Code Maintenance program.
Manual Manually allocate a unique stock code to identify a new stock item added.
Automatic Assign the next stock code automatically when you add a new supplier, based on the entry made at the Next stock code field (Inventory Setup).
[Note]

You can only assign stock codes automatically if the Stock Codes Key type is set to Numeric.

Scripted Assign the next stock code automatically when you add a new stock item, based on a user defined script.

You can use the VBScript Editor to build a unique stock code for each new stock item added.

Next stock code

Indicate the next supplier number that must be allocated to the supplier code field when next you add a supplier using the Supplier Maintenance program.

This number is incremented automatically by the system as you add new suppliers.

You can only access this field if you set the Supplier numbering method to Automatic.

Numbering - Suppliers

Field Description
Numbering  
Method Define the numbering method for new suppliers created using the Supplier Maintenance program.
Manual Manually allocate a unique supplier code to identify a new supplier added.
Automatic Assign the next supplier code automatically when you add a new supplier, based on the entry made at the Next supplier number field (Accounts Payable Setup).
[Note]

You can only assign supplier codes automatically if the Supplier Key type is set to Numeric.

Scripted Assign the next supplier code automatically when you add a new supplier, based on a user defined script.

You can use the VBScript Editor to build a unique supplier code for each new supplier added.

Next supplier

Indicate the next supplier number that must be allocated to the supplier code field when next you add a supplier using the Supplier Maintenance program.

This number is incremented automatically by the system as you add new suppliers.

You can only access this field if you set the Supplier numbering method to Automatic.

Numbering - WIP inspection

Field Description
Numbering  
Method  
Manual Manually allocate a unique WIP inspection number at the time of receiving items into inspection.
Automatic Assign the next available WIP inspection number automatically, according to your entry at the Next WIP inspection number field.
Job classification Select this to number WIP inspections by job class.
Next WIP inspection reference Enter the number that will be used when next you print your WIP inspection references.
Job classifications Select the hyperlink to maintain classifications in the Browse on Job Classification program.

Notes and warnings

Key type considerations

  • Alpha keys result in the left-alignment of all data, with trailing blanks. Numeric keys result in the right-alignment of all data, with preceding zeros. Only the digits 0 to 9 are allowed.

    If you need to change a key type, then you must ensure that all entries/transactions are complete (including journals, distribution reports, postings, month ends, etc). Before making the change, copy the current/live company to a new company (i.e. a History/Backup company) and then change the key type for the old/live company. This will enable you to still review the history against the old key types (in the History/Backup company) while using the new key type for transactions in the live company.

    Similarly, changing the case of a key field could result in loss of access to data (e.g. if you previously defined a stock code using lowercase characters and then change to uppercase, you will not be able to access the lowercase stock code key).

Presentation lengths

  • We recommend you review your presentation key length settings to ensure that these are displayed correctly (e.g. entering long key lengths for keys that don't require them may look unprofessional with the insertion of leading zeros).
  • Although you can define the length of a prefix here, the actual prefix is configured within the relevant program. For this reason, ensure your selection is logical (e.g. if you specify a prefix presentation length of three characters but only enter a 2-character prefix, then a space character is inserted between the prefix and the remaining digits. Conversely, if you enter a prefix presentation length of three characters but specify a 5-character prefix, then only the first 3 characters are used in the key field.
  • Irrespective of the presentation length specified, the information is stored in the database in its full length.

    The presentation length refers to how the data is displayed in SYSPRO and is what the system assumes to be the mximum length of the field. Refer to Transitory keys regarding the significance of presentation lengths for transitory keys which are automatically incremented.

  • Setting the incorrect presentation length can cause problems when entering data.

    For example if you set the Supplier code key to 7 digits and its presentation length to 6 digits, then you will be limited to 6 digits when entering the supplier code in a field.

  • If you are an existing user who is upgrading to SYSPRO 7, you may not notice any changes in the presentation length of your key fields as these default to the length of your previous version of SYSPRO.
  • The SYSPRO Report Writer does not cater for presentation lengths on key fields (Set Key Information) as the length shown on the report is defined in the report itself.

  • Changes made to presentation length are only applied to new records written from the time the change was made.

  • Presentation lengths can currently not be defined for ECC ECO numbers, ECC revisions and ECC releases keys.

Transitory keys

The following keys are considered transitory keys:

  • Accounts Payable Payment runs

  • Accounts Receivable Invoices

  • Accounts Receivable Discount notes

  • Accounts Receivable payment runs

  • Accounts Receivable collector runs

  • Purchase orders

  • GRN numbers

  • Requisitions

  • Sales orders

  • Credit notes

  • Debit notes

  • Delivery notes

  • Dispatch notes

  • Quotations

  • Goods in transit references (GITs)

  • RMA numbers

  • Jobs

  • WIP inspections

When these keys are set to automatically increment, then the presentation length determines not only the size of the field displayed on the screen, but the maximum size that the field can reach before being reset.

For example, if the presentation length for Sales order numbers is 6 characters, then once order number 799999 is used, the system will set the next order number to 000001 (because Credit note numbers are prefixed with 8). This is irrespective of the order number actually being stored in the database as 000000000000001. With a presentation length of 6, the highest Order number will be 000000000799999, the highest credit note number will be 000000000899999 and the highest Dedit note number will be 000000000999999 before being reset.

For all other numeric keys, the highest entry will be all 9’s based on their presentation length. If your presentation length is 6, then the displayed maximum will be 999999 (in the database it will be 000000000999999) and thereafter it is reset to 1. The presented key will then be 000001 and the raw key in the database will be 000000000000001.

The presentation length is therefore the length that the system assumes is the maximum length of the field. If you set the presentation length to 6 and you reached 999999, then if this was just incremented to 1000000, you would not be able to select it or enter it any part of SYSPRO, and when it is printed it would be 000000 and not 1000000.

Warning messages to make you aware that auto-incremental transitory keys are reaching their limits are written to the System Audit log. You can increase the presentation length for the key (providing it is less than the maximum length allowed for the key) to prevent it being reset or do nothing and allow the system to reset the key.

  • The format of the messages generated when the next key is at 5%, 2% and 1% of its maximum length and when it reaches its maximum length are:

    • Next xxxxxxxx in company X is nnnnnnnn which is within 5% of aaaaaaaa

    • Next xxxxxxxx in company X is nnnnnnnn which is within 2% of aaaaaaaa

    • Next xxxxxxxx in company X is nnnnnnnn which is within 1% of aaaaaaaa

    • Next xxxxxxxx in company X is aaaaaaa which is the maximum for the presentation length

  • When the key has reached its maximum length and been reset, the following message is output:

    • Maximum size for the xxxxxxxxx key in company X has been exceeded and reset to bbbbbbbb.

    Legend:

    xxxxxxxx - is the transitory key (e.g. sales orders)

    X - is the company ID. Note that when shared Inventory is used, then the Goods in Transit, Purchase order (if numbering by warehouse) or GRN (if numbering by warehouse) will show the Inventory company ID

    nnnnnnnn - is the next transitory key number to be generated including its prefix where applicable

    aaaaaaaa - is the highest key allowed, including the prefix where applicable

    bbbbbbbb - is the reset key (e.g. 00000001)