Search Results gl_period_types




The GL_PERIOD_TYPES table in Oracle E-Business Suite (EBS) 12.1.1 and 12.2.2 is a fundamental component of the General Ledger (GL) module, serving as a repository for defining and managing accounting period types. This table plays a critical role in financial reporting, period close processes, and fiscal calendar management. Below is a detailed analysis of its structure, purpose, and significance within Oracle EBS.

Purpose and Functionality

The GL_PERIOD_TYPES table stores metadata about different types of accounting periods used in an organization's fiscal calendar. It defines the frequency and structure of accounting periods, such as monthly, quarterly, or annually. This table is referenced by other GL tables, including GL_PERIODS and GL_PERIOD_SETS, to enforce period-level validations and ensure consistency in financial reporting.

Key Columns and Structure

The table consists of several key columns, including:

  • PERIOD_TYPE: A unique identifier for the period type (e.g., 'Month', 'Quarter', 'Year').
  • DESCRIPTION: A textual description of the period type.
  • PERIODS_PER_YEAR: Specifies the number of periods in a fiscal year (e.g., 12 for monthly periods).
  • START_DATE_ACTIVE and END_DATE_ACTIVE: Define the date range during which the period type is valid.
  • CREATION_DATE, CREATED_BY, LAST_UPDATE_DATE, and LAST_UPDATED_BY: Audit columns tracking record creation and modifications.

Integration with Other Modules

The GL_PERIOD_TYPES table integrates with multiple Oracle EBS modules, including:

  • General Ledger (GL): Ensures period integrity during journal posting and financial reporting.
  • Subledger Accounting (SLA): Aligns subledger entries with GL period definitions.
  • Payables (AP) and Receivables (AR): Validates transaction dates against open periods.
This integration ensures that financial data remains synchronized across the enterprise.

Technical Considerations

In Oracle EBS 12.1.1 and 12.2.2, the GL_PERIOD_TYPES table is part of the GL_ schema and is typically accessed via APIs or the Oracle GL application interface. Direct manipulation of this table is discouraged; instead, administrators should use the Accounting Calendar setup in the GL module. The table is indexed on PERIOD_TYPE for performance optimization during period validation checks.

Business Impact

Proper configuration of period types is essential for:

  • Accurate financial reporting and compliance.
  • Smooth period-end close processes.
  • Alignment with organizational fiscal policies.
Misconfiguration can lead to errors in journal posting, reporting discrepancies, and audit failures.

Conclusion

The GL_PERIOD_TYPES table is a cornerstone of Oracle EBS's financial architecture, ensuring that accounting periods are consistently defined and enforced across modules. Its correct setup and maintenance are critical for financial integrity, regulatory compliance, and efficient period management in Oracle EBS 12.1.1 and 12.2.2 environments.