An Attribute Value Matrix (AVM) is a rule-based configuration mechanism in Conga CPQ that restricts selectable product attribute values based on predefined compatibility tables. By associating up to five product attributes within a single matrix, administrators can ensure that users select only valid and manufacturable product configurations in the shopping cart.

Unlike standard constraint rules that process evaluation logic unidirectionally (if X, then Y), Attribute Value Matrices function bi-directionally. Selecting a value for any attribute within the matrix dynamically constrains and updates the selectable options for all other associated attributes in real time.

Key Capabilities

• Bi-Directional Filtering: User selection on any single attribute immediately filters the picklist values of all linked attributes without requiring a specific evaluation sequence.
• Multi-Attribute Scope: Connects up to five attributes per matrix to manage complex attribute dependencies in a centralized table structure.
• Flexible Application Scopes: Attribute Value Matrices can be applied globally across all products, targeted at specific product categories, or bound directly to individual products.
• Error Reduction: Prevents invalid, incompatible, or non-orderable product configurations from being submitted in quotes.

Core Components

An Attribute Value Matrix consists of the following primary components:

Matrix Header

Defines the identity, activation status, application scope (Global, Category, or Product), and description of the attribute matrix rule.

Matrix Attributes

The specific product attributes (up to five) selected from the Product Attribute Value object that participate in the matrix constraint logic.

Compatibility Table (Entries)

The row-by-row definition of valid attribute value combinations. Each row represents a valid, selectable set of attribute values.

Runtime Behavior in the Shopping Cart

When a sales representative configures a product in the CPQ shopping cart:

1. The CPQ engine evaluates all active Attribute Value Matrices associated with the selected product or category.
2. Before any selection is made, all attribute picklists display values that exist in at least one row of the matrix.
3. Upon selecting an attribute value, the CPQ engine filters the remaining attribute picklists, displaying only values that form a valid combination with the selected value based on the compatibility table.
4. If the user changes or clears an attribute selection, the matrix re-evaluates bi-directionally to reflect the updated valid choice set.

Administrative Best Practices

• Ensure all target attributes are created on the Product Attribute Value object and assigned to appropriate Product Attribute Groups.
• Consolidate related attribute rules into a single matrix where possible rather than creating multiple overlapping matrices for the same product.
• Always execute the Criteria Maintenance job after creating, modifying, or deleting an Attribute Value Matrix to refresh the system evaluation cache.

Related Information

For step-by-step instructions on creating and configuring an attribute matrix, see Use Case: Creating Attribute Value Matrices.