Configuring Automatic PO Generation from MRP
SyteLine's MRP engine generates planned purchase orders based on demand calculations, but converting these to firm POs still requires manual intervention in most implementations. By configuring the Purchase Order Generation utility (menu path: Production > Planning > Generate Purchase Orders) and linking it to the SLPoItems IDO, you can automate the entire requisition-to-PO pipeline with configurable thresholds and buyer assignment rules.
- Set up automatic PO creation triggers in the PO Generation Parameters form using min/max dollar thresholds
- Configure buyer assignment rules on the Items form (Purchasing tab) to route generated POs to the correct procurement specialist
- Use the SLRequisitions IDO to create approval-gated requisitions that auto-convert to POs upon final approval
- Link MRP planned orders to blanket POs via the Blanket Order Release form for contracted items
- Set up PO consolidation rules to combine multiple requisition lines for the same vendor into a single purchase order
Multi-Level Approval Workflow Configuration
The SyteLine approval workflow engine supports multi-tier approval routing based on dollar amount, commodity code, or cost center. Configuration is handled through the Workflow Rules form (menu path: System > Workflow > Workflow Rules) and ties into the SLWorkflowTransactions IDO. Proper setup ensures no PO exceeds budget authority without appropriate sign-off.
- Define approval tiers in the Workflow Rules form: set dollar thresholds per approval level (e.g., <$5K buyer, <$25K manager, >$25K director)
- Configure escalation rules with time-based auto-escalation when approvers do not act within the defined SLA window
- Set up email notifications via the SLWorkflowNotifications table to alert approvers of pending PO reviews
- Enable mobile approval through the Infor Ming.le interface for on-the-go purchase order authorization
- Create exception rules for emergency purchases that bypass standard routing with audit trail logging
Vendor EDI and Integration Setup
Automating PO transmission to vendors eliminates manual data entry and reduces order cycle time. SyteLine supports EDI 850 (Purchase Order) document generation through the EDI module and BOD-based integration via Infor ION. Configure the SLEdiOutPo IDO and vendor communication preferences on the Vendors form (EDI tab) to enable electronic PO dispatch.
- Configure EDI 850 mappings on the EDI Outbound PO form for each vendor's specific format requirements
- Set up ION BODs (ProcessPurchaseOrder) for real-time PO transmission to vendors connected through Infor OS
- Enable automatic PO acknowledgment processing via EDI 855 to update order status in SLPoItems without manual intervention
- Configure vendor portal email notifications as a fallback for suppliers not on EDI or ION connectivity
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