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

distribution key - Overview

• Component: PP

• Component Name: Production Planning and Control

• Description: A key specifying the distribution strategy and function according to which capacity requirements are distributed over the duration of an operation.

distribution key - Details

• 
  Key Concepts: 
  Distribution key is a component of SAP Production Planning and Control (PP) that is used to determine the quantity of a material that is to be distributed among different production orders. It is used to assign a certain percentage of the total quantity of a material to each production order. 
  
  How to use it: 
  The distribution key is used to assign a certain percentage of the total quantity of a material to each production order. This percentage can be determined by the user or can be calculated automatically by the system. The distribution key can also be used to assign different materials to different production orders. 
  
  Tips & Tricks: 
  When using the distribution key, it is important to ensure that the total quantity of the material is distributed evenly among all production orders. This will help ensure that all production orders are supplied with the necessary materials in the correct quantities. 
  
  Related Information: 
  The distribution key is closely related to other components of SAP Production Planning and Control such as material requirements planning (MRP) and capacity requirements planning (CRP). These components are used to determine the quantity and timing of materials needed for production orders.