How Output Determination Works and is Configured in SAP SD

In SAP SD, Output Determination is a critical configuration function that ensures the automatic generation and delivery of documents such as order confirmations, delivery notes, and invoices to the appropriate recipients in the sales process. This mechanism allows for the use of multiple output channels such as email, printer, IDoc, or fax.

In this article, we will examine how Output Determination works, its key components, and how to configure it step by step.

📌 1. How Output Determination Works?

Output Determination utilizes SAP’s Condition Technique, enabling the automatic creation and transmission of documents based on predefined rules and conditions.

Key Components

1. Application: Determines which business process triggers output generation (e.g., sales order, delivery, invoice).

2. Output Type: Defines the type of document to be generated (e.g., order confirmation, invoice, delivery note).

3. Access Sequence: Determines the sequence of rules and conditions evaluated to generate output.

4. Dispatch Time: Specifies when the output is generated (e.g., immediately upon document creation, manually, or via a batch job).

5. Output Medium: Defines the communication channel used for output (e.g., email, printer, fax, IDoc).

6. Processing Routines: Specifies how the output is processed, including function modules used.

7. Output Determination Procedure: Defines the structure linking output types to specific business processes.

8. Condition Records: Stores predefined rules determining when and how output is triggered.

🛠 2. Configuring Output Determination (Step by Step Using NACE)

In SAP SD, Output Determination can be configured using the NACE transaction code with the following steps.

Step 1: Define Output Type

➡ Go to NACE → Select Application → Output Types.

➡ Create a new Output Type.

➡ Define fields such as Access Sequence, Dispatch Time, and Output Medium.

Step 2: Define Access Sequence

➡ Go to NACE → Select Application → Access Sequences.

➡ Define an access sequence for the Output Type.

➡ Configure rules for how the system determines output conditions.

Step 3: Define Output Determination Procedure

➡ Go to NACE → Select Application → Procedures.

➡ Assign the Output Type to the relevant Output Determination Procedure.

➡ For example, link it to the Billing Output Procedure for invoices.

Step 4: Maintain Condition Records

➡ Go to NACE → Select Application → Condition Records.

➡ Create condition records based on customer, sales organization, or document type.

➡ Example: Set up automatic printing of invoices for specific customer groups.

Step 5: Testing the Output

➡ Create a test invoice using VF01.

➡ Check the assigned output in VF03.

➡ Ensure the output is successfully printed, emailed, or sent via IDoc.

🚀 3. Usage of Output Determination – Example Scenario

Scenario: Automatic Invoice Printing for a Specific Sales Organization and Billing Types:

A company wants to automatically print invoices for specific billing types within a designated sales organization. The following steps are required:

1️⃣ Define Output Type:

• In NACE → Output Types, create a new Output Type such as ZINV (Invoice).

• Set the Dispatch Time = 4 (Send Immediately).

• Select Print Output as the Output Medium.

2️⃣ Define and Assign Access Sequence:

• In NACE → Access Sequences, create a new Access Sequence such as Z002 (SalesOrg/Billing Type).

• Define relevant condition tables to ensure invoices are processed per the specific sales organization and billing types.

• Assign the newly created access sequence to the output type.

3️⃣ Define Output Determination Procedure:

• In NACE → Procedures, navigate to the Billing Output Procedure.

• Assign the ZINV Output Type to the procedure.

4️⃣ Maintain Condition Records:

• In NACE → Condition Records, create condition records based on sales organization and billing type.

• Assign the designated output device for invoice printing.

5️⃣ Test the Process:

• Generate a test invoice using VF01.

• Verify the output assignment in VF03.

🎯 4. Conclusion & Recommendations

In SAP SD, Output Determination automates the creation and distribution of critical documents like sales orders, deliveries, and invoices. Proper configuration enables automation, reduces errors, and optimizes business processes.

✅ Automate with batch jobs (using SM36)

✅ Customize with User Exit / BAdI

✅ Integrate with S/4HANA Output Management

With this guide you can successfully configure Output Determination in SAP SD in your system! 🚀

Mahmut Yaka 

SAP SD/MM Consultant