Real-Time Accounting

The Real-Time Accounting mechanism (often referred to as Operational Accounting) is one of the platform’s core application-level mechanisms.

Document posting, which updates accounting data, can be performed in real-time mode. Real-time posting occurs as the event happens, reflecting changes and facts instantaneously.

This mode is particularly critical in multi-user environments. Real-time posting typically performs rigorous checks to prevent user errors. For example, it checks inventory balances during a write-off to prevent multiple salespersons from selling the same item simultaneously.

The purpose of real-time posting is to determine, in a live multi-user environment, whether an operation can be executed, and to execute it if permitted.

Real-Time Timestamp

To support real-time posting and maintain correct chronological order, the system generates an operational timestamp each time a document is posted in real-time mode. This timestamp is derived from the current time and the last generated operational timestamp.

If the last operational timestamp is earlier than the current time, the current time becomes the new timestamp:

If the last operational timestamp is equal to or later than the current time, the system sets the new timestamp to one second past the previous one:

When a document is posted in real-time mode, its timestamp is set to this calculated operational timestamp.