The 3-way match is a standard procurement process in SAP S/4HANA that ensures accuracy and compliance by matching three key documents: the purchase order (PO) , the goods receipt (GR) , and the invoice receipt (IR) . This process verifies that the quantities, prices, and terms agreed upon in the purchase order are consistent with the goods received and the invoice received. Let's analyze each option to determine the correct answer.
Explanation of Each Option:
D. The goods receipt needs to be created in reference to the purchase order.
* Correct : In the 3-way match process, the goods receipt (GR) must be created in reference to the purchase order (PO) . This ensures that the goods received match the quantities and descriptions specified in the purchase order. The GR serves as a logistical document that updates inventory and generates a financial document for accruals.
* Reference : According to SAP documentation, the goods receipt is a critical step in the 3-way match process, as it provides the basis for verifying the physical receipt of goods against the PO.
A. The invoice needs to be created in reference to the goods receipt.
* Incorrect : While the invoice receipt (IR) can reference the goods receipt, it is not mandatory. The invoice is typically created in reference to the purchase order , not directly to the goods receipt. The 3- way match compares the invoice against both the purchase order and the goods receipt to ensure consistency.
* Reference : SAP allows flexibility in referencing documents during invoice creation, but the primary reference is usually the purchase order.
B. The purchase order needs to be created in reference to a purchase request.
* Incorrect : While purchase orders (POs) can be created based on purchase requests, this is not part of the 3-way match process. The 3-way match focuses on matching the PO, goods receipt, and invoice receipt, regardless of whether the PO was created from a purchase request.
* Reference : Purchase requests are part of the procurement workflow but are not directly involved in the
3-way match.
C. The 3 logistical steps each generate financial documents.
* Incorrect : Not all three logistical steps (purchase order, goods receipt, and invoice receipt) generate financial documents. Only the goods receipt and invoice receipt generate financial postings. The purchase order itself does not generate a financial document; it serves as a commitment document.
* Reference : SAP documentation confirms that only the goods receipt (for accruals) and invoice receipt (for liabilities) impact the financial ledger.
Key References to SAP Documentation:
* SAP S/4HANA Procurement Processes : Explains the 3-way match process and its role in ensuring accuracy in procurement transactions.
* SAP Help Portal - Goods Receipt and Invoice Verification : Provides detailed guidance on how goods receipts and invoice receipts are matched against purchase orders.
* Three-Way Match in SAP S/4HANA : Highlights the importance of referencing the purchase order during goods receipt and invoice verification.
* Financial Impact of Procurement Documents : Describes how goods receipts and invoice receipts generate financial postings, while purchase orders do not.