Which configuration element contains the criteria that causes an item or document to be blocked in SAP Materials Management?

The release strategy is the configuration element that defines the conditions under which a document, such as a purchase requisition or purchase order, is subjected to a review and approval process before it can proceed. In SAP Materials Management, the release strategy stipulates various criteria, such as the document type, value limits, account assignment categories, and any other relevant parameters that need to be satisfied for a document to be blocked or released.

Once these predefined conditions are set in the release strategy, any document that meets these criteria will be blocked from further processing until the necessary approvals are obtained. This mechanism ensures proper oversight and control over procurement processes, helping organizations manage spending and compliance more effectively.

The functionality provided by the release strategy is essential for ensuring that certain purchasing actions undergo a necessary review process, thereby contributing to better management of physical and financial resources.