Working with Item Interchange References

An interchange reference is a value that represents one or more inventory items. One item can have many references, and multiple items can have the same reference. For example, item 123 could have interchange references of "100.67" and "hammer". Item 456 could also have the interchange reference of "hammer".

When you specify an interchange reference on a form in Service Management, it is automatically replaced with the inventory item if the reference is associated with only one item. When an interchange reference is associated with multiple inventory items, you can select the correct item on the Item References form.

Note: If you specify a value that is neither an inventory item or an interchange reference, then the item is processed as nonstock.

The interchange cross-references are also displayed on the Item References tab on the Items form. The reference data is populated by the ItemMaster BOD.

These order entry forms support item interchange references:

  • Service Order Transactions
  • Contract Lines
  • Rental Counter
  • SRO Material Entry

When an item with an interchange reference is entered on one of those forms, the system follows these item replacement hierarchies:

  • If the item entered is an inventory item, follow current supersede item logic.
  • If the item entered is an interchange reference linked to only one real item, replace the user-specifed item with the real item.
  • If the item entered is an interchange reference linked to multiple real items, open the Item References form for the user to select the actual item they want to use, then return to the parent form. Continue validation with the actual item.
  • If the item entered is neither an inventory item nor interchange reference, treat it as a non-stock item.