Search Results fnd_descr_flex_column_usages




The FND_DESCR_FLEX_COLUMN_USAGES table is a critical component in Oracle E-Business Suite (EBS) 12.1.1 and 12.2.2, serving as a repository for descriptive flexfield (DFF) column usage metadata. Descriptive flexfields allow organizations to extend the standard data model by adding custom attributes to Oracle applications without modifying the underlying database schema. This table stores configuration details about how these flexfields are implemented across various forms and modules in EBS.

Table Structure and Key Columns

The FND_DESCR_FLEX_COLUMN_USAGES table contains several important columns that define the behavior and presentation of DFF segments:
  • APPLICATION_ID: Identifies the Oracle application module (e.g., GL, AP, AR) where the flexfield is used.
  • DESCRIPTIVE_FLEXFIELD_NAME: The name of the descriptive flexfield being configured.
  • DESCRIPTIVE_FLEX_CONTEXT_CODE: Specifies the context (or structure) of the flexfield.
  • APPLICATION_COLUMN_NAME: The column name in the application table that stores the flexfield data.
  • END_USER_COLUMN_NAME: The user-friendly name displayed on the form.
  • COLUMN_SEQ_NUM: Determines the display sequence of the segment.
  • ENABLED_FLAG: Controls whether the segment is active (Y/N).
  • REQUIRED_FLAG: Specifies if the segment is mandatory.
  • DISPLAY_FLAG: Determines if the segment should be visible.
  • DISPLAY_SIZE: Defines the width of the segment in characters.

Functional Significance

This table plays a pivotal role in:
  1. Flexfield Configuration: Stores all segment-level attributes that define how each DFF appears and behaves in application forms.
  2. Data Validation: Contains validation rules and value sets associated with each segment.
  3. Multi-Org Access Control: Supports security rules for segment visibility across operating units.
  4. Context-Sensitive Behavior: Enables different segment configurations based on context values.

Technical Implementation

In Oracle EBS 12.x, this table is populated through:
  • The Oracle Application Developer responsibility
  • Flexfield administration screens
  • ADI (Application Desktop Integrator) for mass updates
  • Database scripts for direct updates (with caution)

Integration Points

The table interacts with several other key EBS tables:
  • FND_DESCR_FLEX_CONTEXTS: For context definitions
  • FND_FLEX_VALUE_SETS: For validation rules
  • FND_APPLICATION: For application metadata

Version-Specific Considerations

Between 12.1.1 and 12.2.2, the fundamental structure remains consistent, but 12.2.2 introduces:
  • Enhanced security features for segment access
  • Improved performance for flexfield rendering
  • Additional columns for cloud-ready functionality

Best Practices

When working with this table:
  1. Always use the Oracle-provided administration screens for changes
  2. Document all customizations thoroughly
  3. Test flexfield changes in a development environment first
  4. Consider the impact on existing data when modifying segments
The FND_DESCR_FLEX_COLUMN_USAGES table remains a cornerstone of Oracle EBS customization capabilities, enabling organizations to tailor the system to their unique business requirements while maintaining upgrade compatibility.