What is alignment key in SAP PP - Production Planning and Control?

SAP Term: alignment key

• Component: PP

• Component Name: Production Planning and Control

• Description: The alignment key determines how parallel sequences are scheduled. It defines whether the floats of the standard sequence or a parallel sequence are at the: End of the sequence Start of the sequence If the float is at the end of the sequence, the sequence is aligned with the earliest date. If it is at the start of the sequence, the sequence is aligned with the latest date.

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• Key Concepts: 
  Alignment key is a feature in SAP Production Planning and Control (PP) that allows users to align the production process with the material requirements planning (MRP) process. It is used to ensure that the production process is in sync with the MRP process, which helps to reduce costs and improve efficiency. 
  
  How to use it: 
  The alignment key is used to link the production process with the MRP process. This is done by assigning an alignment key to each production order. The alignment key is then used to link the production order with the corresponding material requirements planning (MRP) record. This ensures that the production process is in sync with the MRP process, which helps to reduce costs and improve efficiency. 
  
  Tips & Tricks: 
  When assigning an alignment key, it is important to ensure that it is unique and not already assigned to another production order. This will help to avoid any confusion or errors when linking the production order with the corresponding MRP record. 
  
  Related Information: 
  The alignment key feature can be used in conjunction with other features in SAP Production Planning and Control, such as capacity planning and material requirements planning (MRP). This allows users to better manage their production processes and ensure that they are in sync with their MRP processes.