Defining an attribute

To define an attribute, you must assign a name and associate it with an element and object type. Optionally, you can assign valid values to the attribute and indicate whether an attribute is required. Use this procedure to define attributes.

Before defining attributes, you must load Lawson-defined attribute definitions first. See Loading Lawson-defined attributes (SCM/FIN).

  1. If an appropriate element for the attribute does not exist, then use Element (MX00.2) to define the element.
  2. Use these guidelines to specify the field values:
    Note: Select Define in the Element Name field on Attribute (MX00.1) to define an element.
    Element Name

    Specify a name for the element. A user-defined element name does not have to match the attribute name, since the element can be used by several attributes.

    Data Type

    Select one of these data type options:

    • A (Alpha)

    • D (Date)

    • N (Numeric)

    Field Size

    Specify a field size. The maximum field size depends on the data type:

    • Alpha (up to 32 characters)

    • Date (eight characters)

    • Numeric (up to 18 characters)

  3. Use Attribute (MX00.1) to define the attribute. Use these guidelines to specify the field values:
    Attribute

    This field contains the attribute's name.

    Column Heading

    Leave this field blank; it is used only for transaction attributes.

    Element Name

    Select a Lawson-defined or user-defined element to identify the attribute's data type and size.

    From Value/Thru Value fields

    You can assign ranges of valid values to the attribute. Defining valid values ensures consistency for data entry. If you do not define valid values, then any entry valid for the attribute's data type and size is accepted.

    Note: Defining valid values makes your lists more accurate. To interface valid attribute value ranges from a non-Lawson system use Attribute Valid Value Interface (MX160).

    See Interfacing Valid Attribute Value Ranges to Attribute Matrix.

  4. After adding the attribute, click Objects to open the Associate Attribute to Objects (MX00.3) and assign valid object types to the attribute.
  5. Use the following guidelines to enter field values:
    Objects Type

    Select the object types that you want to assign to the attribute. The object type determines where you can use the attribute. For Accounts Receivable, you can assign the Customer (CUST) object type.

    Required

    Select whether the attribute is required. If you select Yes, then a message displays on Customer (AR10) until the field is populated. This is a reminder message, not a hard edit. You can add or change a customer even if required attributes are not defined.

    Description

    Specify a description for the value range.

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