What is the first step in the Payroll process according to SAP guidelines?

In the context of SAP's Payroll process, the initial step is to "Start Payroll." This action initiates the entire payroll cycle and is essential in ensuring that all subsequent activities can be executed smoothly. Starting payroll typically involves gathering necessary inputs such as employee work hours, leave taken, and other relevant data that will affect compensation for the pay period.

Once the payroll process is started, the system can begin processing calculations related to wages, deductions, and taxes. This foundational step establishes the groundwork for all further payroll activities, such as data validation, calculations of gross and net pay, releasing payroll for final processing, and eventually finalizing it.

Understanding the sequence of these steps is crucial, as each phase of payroll must be executed in the correct order to ensure accurate and compliant payroll outcomes.