Distinguishing between concepts in Microsoft Dynamics AX 2012: source document vs. business document

In this blog entry we take a closer look at how we apply the concepts named source document and business document in Microsoft Dynamics AX.

We apply the term source document when we refer to an original record that evidences the occurrence of one or more planned, potential, committed, or actual economic transactions. A source document is entered into a system that records, classifies, tracks, and reports on the economic resources exchanged or committed at the time of the economic transaction.

Some examples of source documents in Microsoft Dynamics AX include:

  • product receipt
  • purchase agreement
  • purchase order
  • purchase requisition
  • vendor invoice

We apply the term business document when we refer to a view of a source document that is issued by one party and received by one or more other parties.

Some examples of business documents in Microsoft Dynamics AX include:

  • customer invoice
  • packing slip
  • project invoice
  • purchase requisition
  • request for quotation
  • sales invoice
  • sales confirmation
  • sales order
  • sales quotation
  • service agreement
  • service order
  • vendor invoice

Note that some of the names of the documents are the same in both contexts – in their implementation in the framework and in their view as business documents.

Term challenge

In the sentences that follow, insert the term that accurately completes each sentence.

To see if you applied the terms as we have, click the link in each sentence. Each link will take you to the Microsoft Dynamics AX glossary entry for the highlighted term, which shows you which term we have applied – source document or business document.

  1. A cash receipt is a ____________ that documents the receipt of cash or cash equivalents.
  2. A bill of lading is a ____________ issued by a carrier to a shipper that serves as the document of title.