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The FLM.FLM_EXE_PREFERENCES table in Oracle E-Business Suite (EBS) versions 12.1.1 and 12.2.2 is a critical data structure within the Flow Manufacturing module. This table stores execution preferences that govern how manufacturing flows, work orders, and related operations are processed in the system. Below is a detailed technical breakdown of its purpose, structure, and functional significance.

Purpose and Functional Context

The FLM_EXE_PREFERENCES table is part of Oracle's Flow Manufacturing solution, which supports lean manufacturing methodologies such as Kanban, Just-in-Time (JIT), and continuous flow production. This table holds configuration settings that dictate execution behavior for manufacturing flows, including default parameters for scheduling, backflushing, and resource allocation. It acts as a central repository for user-defined preferences that influence how the system processes work orders, material consumption, and operational sequencing.

Key Columns and Data Structure

The table comprises several columns that define execution parameters. Some of the most significant columns include:
  • PREFERENCE_ID: A unique identifier for each preference record.
  • ORGANIZATION_ID: Links the preference to a specific inventory organization.
  • PREFERENCE_TYPE: Specifies the category of the preference (e.g., scheduling, backflushing, reporting).
  • PREFERENCE_NAME: A descriptive name for the preference setting.
  • PREFERENCE_VALUE: The actual value assigned to the preference (e.g., a boolean flag, numeric threshold, or text parameter).
  • LAST_UPDATE_DATE and LAST_UPDATED_BY: Audit columns tracking modifications.

Usage in Manufacturing Execution

The table is referenced by Oracle Flow Manufacturing processes to enforce business rules during production execution. For example:
  • Scheduling Rules: Defines whether work orders are automatically scheduled or require manual intervention.
  • Backflushing Controls: Determines if components are automatically deducted from inventory upon operation completion.
  • Resource Allocation: Sets default resources for operations if not explicitly specified in the routing.

Integration with Other Modules

FLM_EXE_PREFERENCES interacts with several EBS modules, including:
  • Inventory (INV): For material consumption and backflushing.
  • Work in Process (WIP): For work order creation and status updates.
  • Advanced Planning (APS): For scheduling alignment.

Customization and Extensions

Organizations often extend this table by adding custom columns or integrating it with PL/SQL triggers to enforce company-specific policies. However, such modifications require careful testing to avoid disrupting core manufacturing workflows.

Conclusion

The FLM.FLM_EXE_PREFERENCES table is a foundational component of Oracle Flow Manufacturing, providing configurable execution rules that streamline production processes. Its design supports flexibility while ensuring consistency in manufacturing operations. Administrators and implementers must thoroughly understand its structure and dependencies to optimize lean manufacturing execution in Oracle EBS 12.1.1 and 12.2.2 environments.