What is the purpose of a statistical key figure in SAP S/4HANA?

Statistical key figures in SAP S/4HANA serve the crucial function of providing non-monetary details that are essential for the planning of key performance indicators (KPIs) or for resource allocation processes within an organization. They allow businesses to quantify aspects that do not translate directly into monetary values, such as the number of employees, machine hours, or square footage.

This data can then be used to allocate costs based on usage, improve decision-making, and facilitate reporting processes that involve operational metrics but do not have an immediate financial impact. For instance, if a company wants to allocate overhead costs based on machine hours, the statistical key figure representing machine hours would provide the necessary information to perform that allocation accurately.

Thus, the core function of statistical key figures within SAP S/4HANA is to enhance the analysis and management of non-financial data, aiding in effective planning and resource management.