How does GFEBS prevent using a vendor number that has been assigned previously?

The prevention of reusing vendor numbers in GFEBS (General Fund Enterprise Business System) is primarily achieved through the use of external number assignment. This method involves generating unique vendor numbers that are not under the control of the internal system processes but instead rely on external sources or rules to ensure each vendor number is distinct and not previously assigned.

Using external number assignment allows for a broader and more secure array of vendor identification that can be safeguarded against duplication. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity of vendor data within the system, ensuring that each vendor can be tracked independently without confusion or error.

In contrast, other methods like internal number ranges may limit the number of identifiers that can be created based on predefined ranges, thus increasing the risk of duplicates as vendors are added over time. Random number generation may lack the structured approach needed to ensure no prior use of a number and could result in conflicts. Periodically resetting vendor numbers would create significant confusion and disrupt ongoing vendor relationships and historical data associated with previous assignments.