Understanding Oracle Fusion Flexfields: Key Concepts
In Oracle Fusion Applications, Flexfields are a powerful feature that allow organizations to extend the data model without modifying the underlying code. They provide the flexibility to capture additional information that's specific to a business, enabling better customization and control. This blog explores the key concepts of Flexfields and how they work in Oracle Fusion.
What Are Flexfields?
Flexfields are customizable fields in Oracle Fusion used to capture extra information that's not otherwise available in standard application fields. Think of them as placeholders or templates that can be configured to suit specific business needs.
There are two main types of Flexfields:
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Descriptive Flexfields (DFFs): Used to capture additional information on a standard Oracle form. For example, adding extra fields to an invoice screen to track custom project codes.
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Key Flexfields (KFFs): Used to define unique identifiers or reference values such as Account Codes, Item Numbers, or Location Codes. They are critical for representing structured data like Chart of Accounts.
Key Concepts of Flexfields
1. Segments
Flexfields are made up of segments, which are individual input fields. For example, a "Location" key flexfield might have segments for Country, State, and City.
2. Context
In Descriptive Flexfields, context helps display different sets of segments based on a given condition. For example, different attributes for different types of employees (Full-time vs Contractual).
3. Value Sets
These define the list of valid values for each segment. A value set could restrict input to numbers, dates, or a predefined list (like a dropdown). They ensure data integrity and consistency.
4. Flexfield Code
Each Flexfield is uniquely identified by a code, which is used during configuration or reference. For example, a KFF for GL accounts might be identified by the code GL#
.
5. Deployment
Flexfields need to be deployed after configuration. Deployment makes the configuration active and available in the user interface. Without deployment, the changes won’t reflect.
6. Security
Access to Flexfields and their segments can be controlled using role-based security to ensure only authorized users can modify or view sensitive information.
Real-World Use Case Example
Suppose your organization tracks employee equipment (like laptops, phones, ID cards). The standard Oracle HCM screen doesn’t have fields for this, so you create a Descriptive Flexfield on the Employee form with segments like:
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Laptop Serial Number
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Phone Model
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ID Card Issued Date
This setup allows you to store and manage data relevant to your HR process without altering Oracle’s base tables or UI code.
Conclusion
Oracle Fusion Flexfields are a game changer when it comes to customizing enterprise applications. They give organizations the flexibility to adapt the system to their business processes without hardcoding changes. Understanding the types of Flexfields and how to configure them effectively helps in making the most of your Oracle Fusion environment.
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