Overview
Alternative Columns is an extension of the Value Lookup feature in SAP Fiori® apps. It enables you to retrieve system-generated internal IDs using a record field and store them in an alternative column. This internal ID can then be passed to SAP to perform updates, simplifying the process of retrieving and modifying records in Standard Mode.
Why use Alternative Columns?
In SAP, each record is identified internally by a unique ID that is not exposed to the user interface. Users typically interact with external identifiers (e.g., bank account numbers). However, to make changes to a record, SAP often requires the internal ID.
The Alternative Columns feature addresses this by allowing you to specify an alternative column. This column is used to look up the internal ID automatically in the background, enabling seamless updates to SAP records.
How to Configure an Alternative Column
- Follow these steps to record a script:
- Open the SAP Fiori® app, for example, Manage Bank Accounts.
- Search for the account you want to edit.
- Click Edit and update the desired field.
- Click Save and End Recording.
- Next, in the Map tab, do the following:
- Select the field (e.g., BankAccountInternalID) for which you need to define the alternative column.
- Select Alternative Column and do the following:
- Select the known field, for example, BankAccountNumber.
- Click Finish.
- A new row will get auto filled with the details, for example, Alternative Column for BankAccountNumber.
- Map the necessary fields in the excel of Data Set panel.
- Finally, in the Run tab, do the following:
- Edit or update the necessary details and Save the files.
- Click Run.
- The updated details will be automatically applied.