Search Results cst_cost_types




The CST_COST_TYPES table in Oracle E-Business Suite (EBS) 12.1.1 or 12.2.2 is a fundamental repository for cost type definitions within the Cost Management module. It serves as a master reference for different costing methodologies, enabling organizations to define, track, and analyze inventory and manufacturing costs based on business requirements. Below is a detailed breakdown of its structure, purpose, and functional significance:

1. Purpose and Overview

The CST_COST_TYPES table stores metadata about cost types, which represent distinct costing methods (e.g., Standard, Average, FIFO, LIFO) or custom cost models. These cost types are pivotal for:

  • Inventory Valuation: Assigning costs to items based on predefined rules.
  • Manufacturing Accounting: Calculating work order variances and production costs.
  • Reporting: Enabling comparative analysis across cost methods.

2. Key Columns and Structure

The table includes critical columns such as:

  • COST_TYPE_ID: Primary key, uniquely identifying each cost type.
  • COST_TYPE: Descriptive name (e.g., "FROZEN", "AVERAGE").
  • DESCRIPTION: Detailed explanation of the cost type's use case.
  • DEFAULT_COST_TYPE_ID: References a default cost type for inheritance.
  • FROZEN_FLAG: Indicates if the cost type is static (e.g., for Standard Costs).
  • LEGAL_ENTITY_ID: Links to legal entities for multi-org compliance.

3. Integration with Other Modules

The table integrates with:

  • Inventory (INV): Item costs are derived from active cost types.
  • Work in Process (WIP): Variance analysis relies on cost type comparisons.
  • General Ledger (GL): Cost accounting entries are mapped to GL accounts.

4. Functional Scenarios

Example 1: Standard Costing
A "FROZEN" cost type is used to maintain fixed standard costs, which are periodically updated via cost rolls. The FROZEN_FLAG ensures no ad-hoc changes.

Example 2: Average Costing
An "AVERAGE" cost type dynamically recalculates item costs based on receipts, with DEFAULT_COST_TYPE_ID linking to a baseline for adjustments.

5. Technical Considerations

  • Indexes: Optimized queries via COST_TYPE_ID and LEGAL_ENTITY_ID indexes.
  • APIs: CST_COST_TYPE_PUB package manages CRUD operations.
  • Audit Trails: Changes are logged in CST_AUDIT tables.

6. Upgrade Implications (12.1.1 to 12.2.2)

In 12.2.2, enhancements include:

  • Support for cloud-scale partitioning.
  • Tighter integration with Fusion Accounting Hub.

7. Best Practices

  • Limit custom cost types to avoid performance overhead.
  • Use FROZEN_FLAG judiciously for audit compliance.

In summary, the CST_COST_TYPES table is a cornerstone of Oracle EBS Cost Management, enabling flexible, auditable, and scalable cost accounting. Its design ensures alignment with both financial reporting standards and operational costing needs.