In order to create purchase order records in Alma, you must create fund and vendor records. Creating ledgers and funds is one of the first steps in the overall acquisitions process. At least one ledger and one fund must be configured before purchasing, receiving, and invoicing can take place in Alma. However, if your institution requires multiple ledgers to group many types of funds, more ledgers can be created.
Ledger- a ledger in Alma represents a collection of funds.
Fund- funds represent actual money in an account. Funds are attached to purchase order line encumbrances and payments. You can access funds in Alma to monitor spending, and track purchase order lines.
Vendor record- an aggregator or publisher that sells library materials to your institution. The Alma vendor record stores vendor contact information, orders and invoices.